The 'M - Kent Fire and Rescue Service

The ‗M.A.D‘. list. 

MEDALS, AWARDS 

and 

DECORATIONS 

granted to the members of 

BRITAIN‘S 

various 

FIRE BRIGADES, 

1890 – 2009. 

1

INTRODUCTION. 

Fire fighting services have been available in British towns 

and villages for many years but it was during the first years 

of World War II that this miscellany of brigades met their 

biggest operational challenges. 

The unprecedented demands of the Blitz led to the ultimate 

rite of passage, the nationalisation of these independent fire 

brigades and the creation of a National Fire Service. 

Not surprisingly, the number of bravery awards made to 

Fire Service personnel reflects the level and nature of enemy 

activity, and so 1941/2 was the time when the greatest 

number of gallantry awards were made to fire service 

personnel. 

Thankfully, a different situation prevails in the first decade 

of the 21 st century. Peace, determined, effective fire safety 

campaigns, safety legislation, a decline in the use of open 

fires, portable heaters and cigarettes have brought about a 

drastic reduction in the number of fires attended by brigades 

and with this, associated deaths. 

This decline has resulted in a reduction in the number of 

awards for bravery gained by Fire Service personnel. 

In the years 2000 to 2009 (inc.) only seven awards for 

gallantry were made to Fire Service personnel. 

2

ABOUT THE LONDON GAZETTE. 

Our green and pleasant land contains many ―National 

Treasures‖. Some are well known, others less so. 

It may be difficult to imagine a newspaper as a ‗national 

treasure‘ but without doubt the London Gazette, first 

issued in 1665, is just that. A continuum of detailed, 

authoratitive information about events and, most 

importantly, the people of the United Kingdom and 

beyond. 

Its pages have reported, and continue to report, bravery 

and bankruptcies, deaths and disasters, royalty and road 

closures. 

The London Gazette also proclaims awards granted 

by the Monarch to members of the public, the 

armed forces and local authority services. 

More than 4,000 members of British fire brigades 

have been honoured by our monarchs for gallantry 

or distinguished service and their names, and in 

many cases deeds, are listed here. 

The compiler willingly admits that this compilation 

could not have been completed without the 

invaluable history contained in the pages of the 

London Gazette. 

3

IN THE YEAR 1890. 

Whitehall, December 20 th. 1890. 

THE Queen has been graciously pleased to confer the "Albert Medal of the Second Class" upon Pioneer David Thomas Davis, 2nd 

Battalion, Coldstream Guards, and upon Color-Sergeants Henry Pickersgill and William Wilson, 1st Battalion, Scots Guards, in 

recognition of gallantry displayed by them on the occasion of a fire which took place at the Wellington Barracks, London, on the 

12 th November last. (L.G. 26117, 23 rd December 1890, pp. 7201.) 


War Office, November 5 th 1891. 

THE Queen has been graciously pleased to give orders for the following promotion in the Most Honourable Order of the Bath To 

be an Ordinary Member of the Civil Division of the Second Class, or Knights Commanders of the said Most Honourable Order, 

viz.:— 

Eyre Massey SHAW, Esq., C.B., late Chief Officer of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, (L.G. 26221, 10 th October 1891, pp. 5841.) 


No entries of Fire Brigade interest found. 


Quartermaster and Honorary Lieutenant James MAGUIRE, Superintendent of the Fire Brigade, Aldershot, is granted the 

honorary rank of Captain. Dated 20th January, 1893. (L.G. 26366, 24 th January 1893, pp. 414.) 


Nothing found apart from a reference to a “fire float” being available for disposal in Chatham Dockyard. Could this be an very 

early reference to what we now call a fire boat? Much more likely, it refers to a vessel kept to be set alight and sailed into the 

enemy fleet, hopefully setting fire their rigging and rendering them immobile. 


Fire floats 17 and 76 remain for sale at Chatham Dockyard. (L/G. 26682 22 nd November 1885, pp. 6484.) 


The Third Supplement to the London Gazette 26717, 20 th February 1895, pp. 953 is black bordered and devoted entirely to the 

Interment of; 

The Remains of 

His ROYAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCE HENRY MAURICE OF BATTENBERG, K.G., Husband of HER ROYAL HIGHNESS 

THE PRINCESS HENRY OF BATTENBERG, 

(The Isle of Wight Fire Brigade Association formed part of the procession along with other organizations of the Isle of Wight.) 

Naval and Military Attaches of Embassies. — 

Gentlemen of The Queen's and other Royal Households in Waiting. 

Gentlemen of The Queen's and other Royal Households out of Waiting. 

The Naval Lords of the Admiralty. 

The Commander-in-Chief and Head-Quarter Staff of the Army. 

In fours, according to seniority. 

Officers of the Navy. Officers of the Army. Officers of the Auxiliary Forces. 

A Company of the 5th (Isle of Wight) Volunteer Battalion, Hampshire Regiment.. 

Deputations from the Isle of Wight, viz, Deputy Lieutenants. 

Isle of Wight Fire Brigade Association. 

St. Helens Urban District Council. 

Ryde Town Council. 

4

Isle of Wight College, Ryde. 

Corporation of Southampton. 

Royal Tradesmen. 

Military Mounted Police. 

Upon the Coffin, which was covered with the "Union Jack," were placed the Insignia of the Order of the Garter and the Busby and 

Sword of His Royal Highness. On arrival at the entrance to the Church Yard at Whippingham, the Remains were received by 

The Lord Chamberlain and Vice-Chamberlain, and met by The Bishop of Winchester, The Dean of Windsor, and; The Rev. 

Clement Smith, Rector of Whippingham, and The Choir of St; George's Chapel, Windsor Castle, under the direction of the 

Organist, Sir Walter Jarratt. 

The Opening Sentences of the Burial Service were sung by The Choir as the Procession moved up the 

Church Yard in the following order: 

Mr. Richter, Captain Gubbins, Mr. G. Butcher, 

Stud Groom „Sheila‟, R.Y.S. Valet. 

The Churchwardens :— 

Mr. James Roach. Mr. Graham E. Bhedden. 

The Choir. 

The Very Rev. P. Eliot, The Rev. Clement Smith, The Dean of Windsor, Hector of Whippingham, 

Resident Chaplain in Ordinary. Honorary Chaplain to Her Majesty. 

The Bishop of Winchester, Clerk of the Closet to Her Majesty. 

Hon. A. Fellowes, Hon. Sir S. Ponsonby-Fane., K.C.B., 

Vice-Chamberlain. Comptroller in The Lord Chamberlain's Department. 

Earl of Lathom, G.C.B., The Lord Chamberlain. 

THE SUPPORTERS OF THE PALL. 

The Coffin. 

THE. SUPPORTERS OF THE PALL. 

Borne by Men of the Scots Guards, under the Command of Lieutenant Hon. C. S. Heathcote Drummond Willoughby 


This was the 50 th year of Queen Victoria‟s reign. The Fire Brigades Association was among many organisations to wish Her 

Majesty “heartfelt congratulations on the happy occasion of the completion of the Fiftieth Year of Your Majesty's most beneficent 

Reign”. (L/G. 25717, 1 st July 1897, pp. 3559.) 


Her Majesty visited the City of London and completed her visit by inspecting a parade of fire brigades that had come from all 

parts of England. Major-General Sir John McNeill, K.C.B., K.C.M.G., presented The Duke of Marlborough, who then presented 

Sir E. Massey Shaw, K,C.B., and Mr, Ian Malcolm to The Queen. The fire brigades were under the direction of Mr. D. G. Dyson, 

of Windsor. Her Majesty, after inspecting the firemen, who were drawn up in line, drove between the lines of the steam and 

manual engines. (L/G. 26947, 14 th March 1898, pp. 1614.) 








ADDRESSES and Resolutions expressive of sympathy with His Majesty King Edward the Seventh and the Royal Family on the 

occasion of the lamented death of Her late Majesty Queen Victoria, and congratulation to the King upon His Majesty's Accession 

to the Throne, have been received by the Secretary of State for the Home Department from the undermentioned Bodies for 

presentation to His Majesty, and have been presented accordingly. 

The National Central Council of the Fire Brigades, the Fire Brigades Association, Esher Fire Brigade were among the hundreds of 

organisations who sent letters of condolence on the lamented death of Queen and congratulastions to the King on his accession to 

the Throne. 

(Supplement to the L/G. 27394, 6 th January 1902, pp. 87.) 



5




Sergeant-Major Arthur Crook, from the Royal Military College, to be Quartermaster, with the honorary rank of Lieutenant, to fill 

the post of Superintendent of the Fire Brigade at Aldershot, vice Honorary Lieutenant J. II. George, deceased. Dated 11th. 

October, 1905. (The L/G 27843, 16 th January 1905, pp. 6778.) 


Re ALFRED ROBERT TOZER, Deceased. 

Pursuant to the Statute, 22 and 23 Vic., cap. 35. 

NOTICE is hereby given, that all creditors and other persons having any claims or demands against the estate of Alfred Robert 

Tozer, late of the Chief Fire Station, Upper Priory, Birmingham, in the county of Warwick, Superintendent of the Birmingham 

Fire Brigade, deceased (who died intestate on the 25th day of April, 1906, and to whose estate letters of administration were 

granted by the Birmingham District Probate Registry to Alfred Robert Tozer, a son of the deceased, on the 6th day of June, 1906), 

are hereby required to send particulars of their claims and demands to me, the undersigned, as Solicitor for the administrator, on or 

before the 4th day of September, 1906, after which date the administrator will proceed to distribute the assets among the persons 

entitled thereto, having regard only to the claims of which he shall then have had notice.— 

Dated this 21st day of July, 1906. 

D. BROOKS, 15, Waterloo-street, Birmingham, Solicitor for the Administrator. (L/G 27934, 24 th June 1906. pp. 5082.) 


SPECIAL AWARDS IN CONNECTION WITH THE FIRE CONGRESS. (L/G. 28030, 14 th June 1907, pp. 16.) 

Italian Government Silver Medal of Merit. 

DALE, Arthur T., Hon. Auditor, National Fire Brigades Union. 

DYER, J. Herbert, Vice-President. National Fire Brigades Union. 

FOLKER, Horace S., Hon. Secretary, National Fire Brigades Union. 

FOX, Lieutenant-Colonel C. J., Chief Officer, London Salvage Corps. 

KUSEL, C., British Representative of the Italian Fire Brigades' Union in England. 

SACHS, Edwin 0., President, British Fire Prevention Committee. 

SCOTT, James, Chief Officer, Bradford Fire Brigade. 

Competitions and Displays. Clarnico Fire Brigade. Lydd Fire Brigade. Tonbridge Fire Brigade. Lowfold Fire Brigade. 


LITTLEBOROUGH URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL. (L/G. 28 th August 1908, 28172 pp. 6308. One of many similar notices 

appearing in the Gazette at the start of the new century.) 

PUBLIC HEALTH ACTS AMENDMENT ACT, 1907; 

NOTICE is hereby given, that by an Order J.3I under his hand, dated the 12th day of August, 1908, the Right Honourable Herbert 

John Gladstone, one of His Majesty's Principal Secretaries of State, has, in pursuance of the power conferred upon him by section 

3 of the Public Health Acts Amendment Act, 1907, declared Part 8 (Fire Brigade) of the said Act to be in force in the Urban 

District of Littleborough, and that the effect of such Order is to confer upon the above named Council powers enabling:— 

(1) The Police and any member of the Fire Brigade of the Local Authority to enter and break open premises in case of fire. 

(2) The Police to control the street traffic at fires. 

(3) The Captain or Superintendent of the Fire Brigade in charge to have control of the operations for putting out fires. 

(4) The Local Authority of any Urban District to enter into and carry into effect agreements for the common use of fire engines, 

with their appurtenances and firemen, or for mutual assistance in case of fire. 

Dated this 24th day of August, 1908. 

GEORGE H. WILD, Clerk to the Council. 


Chancery of the Royal Victorian Order, 

St. James's Palace, July 23, 1909. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to make the following promotion in and appointments to the Royal Victorian Order, to 

take effect from the dates noted:— (L/G. 28273, 23 rd July 1909, pp. 5621.) 

19th July, 1909. 

Captain James de Courcy HAMILTON, Royal Navy (retired), Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade 

KING'S POLICE MEDAL. 

The KING has been pleased to grant to the following officers of Police and Fire Brigades in the United Kingdom and India the 

King's Police Medal, which was instituted by His Majesty on the 7th July, 1909:— (L.G. 28306, 9 th November 1909, pp. 8244.) 

Fire Brigades: 

Senior Superintendent Frederick John SMITH, London. 

6

Superintendent William Thomas EMANUEL, London. 

Chief Officer Edward GEALL, Bury. 

SCOTLAND: 

City Firemaster Arthur PORDAGE, Edinburgh. 

IRELAND: 

Patrick REDMOND, late Chief of the Kilkenny Fire Brigade. 


Fire Brigades Association. 

Fire Brigades, National, Central Council. 

Whitehall, January 14, 1910. 

KING'S POLICE MEDAL. 

The KING has been pleased to grant to the following Officers in Colonial Police Forces and Fire Brigades the King's Police 

Medal, which was instituted by His Majesty on the 7th July 1909:— (Supplement to the L/G. 28329, 14 th January 1910. pp. 338.) 

No awards were made to members of U.K. Fire Brigades. 

James McFarlane LAPSLEY, Superintendent of the Fire Brigade Board of Western Australia. 

James Charles GATES, Senior Constable, New South Wales Police Force. 

Ogulla KANGU, Private Constable, East. Africa Protectorate Police. 

Chong SIN, Detective Sergeant, Federated Malay States Police Force. 

Thomas STONE, District Superintendent, Northern Nigeria Police. 

AH Dan BORNU, Corporal, Northern Nigeria Police. 

Ali KANO, Constable, Northern Nigeria Police. 

Readers of Fire Brigade magazines of this period will be aware that tragedies of this nature and, particularly, nightclothes being 

set alight by an unguarded fire, were incredibly common. 

THE ALBERT MEDAL. (2nd Class.) (Supplement to the L/G., 28389, 24 th June 1910, pp. 4485.) 

MRS. CAROLINE HUGHES. 

On the 14th October, 1905, a fire occurred on the premises, 129, Clarendon-road, Hove, where two children named Austen, aged 

11 and 4 years respectively, had been left at home by their mother who was out working. Mrs. Hughes, whose house was in the 

same street, and who was informed of the outbreak by her daughter, ran to the house and on entering found a paraffin lamp in 

flames on the table, and the two children crouching in the far corner, too frightened to move. She led them out one at a time, and 

in shielding them from the flames her dress caught fire. 

Mrs Hughes afterwards carried out the blazing lamp, and while doing so sustained serious injuries to her face, chest and arms, 

which eventually led to the amputation of her left arm two years later. 

Whitehall, August 5, 1910. 

The KING has been pleased to award the Edward Medal of the Second Class to; (There is no indication that the town‘s fire 

brigade attended this incident and this is not a surprise. Firefighting in mines has long been an ‗in house‘ affair. Nowadays, fire 

and rescues services are provided, with Health and Safety approval, by the Mines Rescue Service Ltd.). 

Archer CARTWRIGHT, Under Manager, Russell Colliery. 

Isaiah WALKER, Miner, Russell Colliery. 

Samuel SLATER, Miner, Russell Colliery. 

Anthony WILLETS, Miner, Russell Colliery. 

On the 17th April. 1910, an underground fire, in which the lives of two workmen were lost, occurred at the Russell Colliery, near 

Dudley, Staffs—a district where the workings are peculiarly liable to spontaneous combustion. The fire broke out at a point about 

114 yards from the bottom of the downcast shaft, and when it was discovered by smoke issuing from the upcast shaft, the Manager 

of the mine, accompanied by several workmen, proceeded to the spot to try and put the fire out. After working for a considerable 

time in the heat and smoke, two of the party, Archer Cartwright (Under Manager) and Anthony Willets, were sent to the surface 

for tools, leaving the Manager and two workmen to proceed with the work of fighting the fire. In their absence, both the Manager, 

who, feeling the effects of the smoke, had walked back a short distance, and the two workmen were overcome by the noxious 

atmosphere. Willets, on his return, found the Manager unconscious and dragging him, in spite of his very heavy weight, to the 

bottom of the shaft, brought him safely to the surface. Willets and Cartwright and a third man named Samuel Slater then 

descended the shaft in order to try and rescue the two workmen who had succumbed. They found them and attempted to carry 

them back; but Willets, who was already exhausted by his previous efforts, gave signs of giving way, and Cartwright and Slater 

also feeling ill-effects, they were all compelled to return and leave the two unfortunate workmen. On their way back, Willets fell 

down unconscious, and Cartwright and Slater, being unable to help him, made their way with difficulty to the surface. They were 

able, however, to tell Isaiah Walker of Willets' condition, and he volunteered to try and bring Willets out. Descending the mine 

alone, and crawling on his hands and knees under the smoke, Walker managed to reach Willets, whom he found lying on his face 

about 27 yards from the shaft. Seizing him by the shoulders, Walker managed to drag Willets to the shaft bottom, and then took 

him up in the cage. Walker again went down the shaft in the hope of reaching the two workmen left in the mine; but this time he 

was unsuccessful, and was forced to come back. 

7


In addition to the names which appeared in the London Gazette of the 22nd July, the King has been pleased to award the 

Edward Medal of the Second Class for gallant conduct in connection with the Whitehaven Colliery disaster to— 

William James MULLHOLLAND, Hewer, Wellington Pit. Joseph LUCAS, Hewer, William Pit. James TAYLOR., Deputy, 

Ladysmith Pit. 

The funeral of KING EDWARD VIII, 1910. 

More than 6,000 expressions of sympathy, from a wide range of organizations were submitted to the Palace but of these it would 

appear that only two were from Fire Brigade organisations. In 1910, the death of King Edward VIII produced an even larger 

number of expressions of sympathy and a similar response from the Fire Brigades. 

On arriving at Windsor the Coffin, preceded by the Earl Marshal, was removed from the train by the Bearer Party of the Brigade 

of Guards, and placed upon a Gun Carriage drawn by the Royal Navy. The Coffin was covered by a Pall of Purple Velvet and the 

Royal Standard, on which rested the Crown, with the Regalia, also the Insignia of the Order of the Garter. 

Guards of Honour from the Royal Navy and the Brigade of Guards were mounted at the Great Western Railway Station, and from 

the Brigade of Guards at St. George's Chapel. 

The Procession to St George's Chapel moved in the following Order:— 

An Officer of the Headquarter Staff. 

First Division of Escort of the Royal Horse Guards dismounted. 

Pursuivants of Arms. G. W. Wollaston, Esq., M.V.O., Bluemantle. 

T. M. Joseph-Watkin, Esq., Portcullis. Captain The Hon. R. Lygon 

(Grenadier Guards), Adjutant in Brigade Waiting. Captain D. C. L. Stephen (Grenadier Guards), 

A.D.C. to Major-General Commanding London District. A. Cochrane, Esq., Rouge Croix. E. Green, Esq., 

Rouge Dragon. Lieutenant The Hon. Captain C. J. C. Grant, G. V. A. Monckton- Aruudell (1st Life Guards), 

Silver Stick Adjutant. Coldstream Guards, Brigade Major Brigade of Guards. Major-General A. E. Codrington, C.V.O., C.B., 

Commanding the London District. 

The London Metropolitan Fire Brigade participated in the funeral procession of King Edward VII. They escorted the 

twelfth carriage. (source; Supplement to the L/G, 28401, 28 th July 1910, pp 5486.) 

Twelfth Carriage. 

Dressed Landau and Pair Bay Horses.; 

Lord Knollys, G.C.B., G.C.V.O., K.C.M.G. 

Colonel Lord Snffield, P.C., G.C.V.O., K.C.B. 

General The Right Hon. Sir Dighton M. Probyn, P.C., G.C.B., G.C.V.O., 

K.C.S.I., V.C. 

Major-General Sir Stanley Clarke, G.C.V.O., C.M.G. 

Households of His late Majesty. 

Gentlemen of the Household of Her Majesty Queen Alexandra. 

Household of The King. 

Gentlemen of the Household of the Queen. 

Third Division of Escort, 2 nd. Life Guards. 

Police and Fire Brigade Detachments. 

Officer in Command. 

Assistant Commissioner—F. S. Bullock, Esq., C.I.E. 

Commissioner—Captain J. W. Nott-Bower. 

Chief Constable—Roderick Ross, Esq., M.V.O. 

Inspector-General—Colonel Sir Neville Chamberlain, K.C.B. 

Chief Commissioner—Lieutenant-Colonel Sir John F. G. Ross-of- Bladensburg, K.C.B. 

Assistant Divisional Officer—Lieutenant H. Spencer, R.N. 

Fourth Division of Escort, 2 nd Life Guards. 

Police and Fire Brigade Detachment. 

London — Metropolitan City. 

Edinburgh Police. 

Royal Irish Constabulary. 

Dublin Metropolitan Police. 

Metropolitan Fire Brigade. 

Whitehall. , October 20, 1910. (L/G. 28426, 21 st October 1910, pp. 7433). 

The KING has been pleased to give and grant unto Edwin Otho Sachs, Esq., F.R.S. (Edin.), Vice-President of the International 

Fire Service Council, His Majesty's Royal licence and authority to accept and wear the Cross of Officer of the Order of the Oaken 

Crown, conferred upon him by Her Royal Highness the Grand Duchess Regent of Luxemburg, in recognition of valuable services 

rendered by him. 

8


Whitehall, December 22 nd 1910. 

His Majesty the KING has been graciously pleased to award the King's Police Medal to the following officers of Police and 

Fire Brigades in the United Kingdom, India, and His Majesty's Dominions beyond the Seas: — 

Fire Brigades. (Supplement to the L/G 28453, 3 rd. January 1911, pp. 10). 

Frank TURNER, Superintendent, Warrington. 

Harold Thomas GEORGE, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 



His Majesty the KING has been graciously pleased to award the King's Police Medal to the following Officers of Police and 

Fire Brigades in the United Kingdom and His Majesty's Dominions beyond the Seas:—( L/G, 28568, 2 nd January 1912, pp. 30.) 

ENGLAND AND WALES. 

Fire Brigades. 

William John MAY, Superintendent, London Fire Brigade. 

George Henry NORRIS, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Philip Joseph BLANPIED, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

James SCOTT, Chief Officer, Bradford Fire Brigade. 

Horace Shephard FOLKER, late General Honorary Secretary, National Fire Brigade's Union. 

George Patrick COOPER, Foreman, Port Adelaide Fire Brigade. 

James Parsons MURPHY, Senior Fireman, Port Adelaide Fire Brigade. 

William Frederick CHEMINANT, Senior Fireman, Port Adelaide Fire Brigade. 

William VALLENTINE, Senior Fireman, Port Adelaide Fire Brigade. 

William MITCHELL, First Class Fireman, Port Adelaide Fire Brigade. 

George Victor DAVIES, Third Class Fireman, Port Adelaide Fire Brigade. 

Edward George HINDE, Chief Officer of the Johannesburg Municipal Fire Brigade. 


Whitehall, December 17, 1912. 

His Majesty the KING has been graciously pleased to award the King's Police Medal to the following officers of Police Forces 

and Fire Brigades in the United Kingdom, India, and His Majesty's Dominions beyond the Seas:—( L/G, 28677, 1 st. January 

1913, pp. 5.) 



J. NEILL, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

George BEESLEY, Fireman, Colne Borough Fire Brigade. 

James LITTLE, Fireman, Calcutta Fire Brigade. 

Charles John May BELL, Superintendent, Pietermaritzburg Fire Brigade. 

Adolf FRIEDERICH, Assistant Engineer, Calcutta Fire Brigade. 


The KING was pleased, at Buckingham Palace, on Tuesday, the 12th instant, to present to Mr. George Edward Bennett and to 

Mr. George Frederick Irish Albert, Medals of the Second Class for gallantry in saving life, as detailed below: — (London 

Gazette, 28750, 26 th August 1913, pp. 6079.) 

On the 28th December last while an exhibition was being given at the Empire Cinema Palace, Slough, some cinematograph films, 

which a boy, aged 13 years, was rewinding, caught fire. In response to the boy's shouts an operator from the adjoining operating 

chamber tried to put out the fire with a wet blanket, but the flames were too fierce for his efforts to prove successful. Mr. Bennett, 

the proprietor, was in the hall, and on learning that the boy was in the rewinding room, he at once climbed the vertical iron ladder 

leading to the trap-door of the room, from which volumes of flame and smoke, were issuing. On entering the room he found the 

boy lying on the floor, and succeeded in dragging him to the trap-door and down the ladder into the hall, and thus saved the boy's 

life. Some 5,000 feet of film were destroyed. Mr. Bennett was badly burned, and ran very serious risk to his own life. 

On the 27th April, 1913, while young children were playing at Redditch, Worcestershire, on a piece of ground through which a 

sewer was being carried, a boy, one of their number, fell into the sewer and disappeared. 

Attracted by the children's cries Irish ran to the spot, where the sewer was open for some 30 or 40 yards. The boy was not to be 

seen, but the place where he had fallen in having been pointed out, Irish jumped into the sewer, which was 2½ feet wide and 14 

feet deep with perpendicular sides, and with some difficulty succeeded in finding the child in the water at the bottom. He lifted 

him out and found him to be insensible. The water was level with the rescuer's head, and owing to the narrowness of the sewer 

and the steepness of the sides he was unable to climb out, so he had to support the boy until assistance arrived. The child was 

apparently dead, but by the aid of artificial respiration he was brought round and recovered. 

9


Whitehall l1, March 27, 1914. 

His Majesty the KING has been graciously pleased to award an Edward Medal of the Second Class to Robert Dunbar under 

the following circumstances: —(L/G 28817, 31 st. March 1914, pp. 2738). Not a ‗Fire Brigade‘ entry but an interesting insight 

into mine rescue procedures, or the lack thereof, at the time). 

On the 3rd of August, 1913, a fire occurred at the Cadder Colliery, Lanarkshire, and, on the alarm being raised, a panic ensued. 

Most of the men, not knowing where the fire had originated, turned into the main airway down which the smoke was being 

carried, and were overcome by the fumes. Robert Dunbar, a miner, however, by presence of mind and by utilising his knowledge 

of the workings, succeeded in bringing two of his fellow workmen into fresh air by another route, after having courageously 

waited for and revived one of them who had collapsed. After returning to the surface, Dunbar again descended underground to 

assist in the work of rescue, and, in the course of the subsequent operations, succeeded in saving one of the rescue party who was 

overcome. The Commissioner, who conducted the public inquiry into the disaster, made special mention of Dunbar's sustained 

courage and coolness. 


Whitehall, 1st January, 1915. 


and Fire Brigades in the United Kingdom, India, and His Majesty's Dominions beyond the Seas. (Third Supplement to the L/G. 

29204, 1 st. January 1915, pp. 4.) 


FIRE BRIGADES. 

Alexander Wall WEIR, Chief Superintendent, Liverpool City Police. 

J. FRANKLIN, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Harry DARKINS, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Dr. J. B. WRIGHT, Chief Constable of the Newcastle-on-Tyne City Police and Director of the Fire Brigade. 



His Majesty The KING has been graciously pleased to award the King's Police Medal to the following officers of Police 

Forces and Fire Brigades in the United Kingdom, India, and His Majesty's Dominions beyond the Seas: (Second Supplement 

to the L/G 29423, 1 st January 1916, pp. 85.) 

Fire Brigades 

William George SWANTON, Deputy Superintendent, Newcastle-on-Tyne Fire Brigade. 

G. A. HENLEY, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

William WADDELL, Chief Officer of the Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

William ALLAN, Superintendent, Edinburgh Fire Brigade. 

Whitehall, April 14, 1916 

The KING was pleased, on Saturday, the 8th instant, at Buckingham Palace, to present to Lieutenant-Commander Arthur 

Richard Shaw Warden, R.N., the Albert Medal of the First Class, which was conferred upon him by His Majesty for gallantry 

in saving life, as detailed below: (L/G. 29552, 18 th April 1916, pp. 4015.) 

On the morning of the 26th October, 1915, the Orderly Officer on duty at the Bassin Loubet, Boulogne, was informed that a fire 

had broken out in the after hold of the S.S. "Maine" Ammunition Ship, in which a quantity of high explosives was stowed, and he 

at once reported the fact to Lieutenant-Commander Warden, at the Office of the Naval Transport Officer. 

In the meantime the ship was abandoned by her officers and crew, and steps were taken by the local fire brigade to rig the shore 

fire hoses. Lieutenant-Commander Warden immediately proceeded on board, and on arrival at the after hold found smoke issuing 

from between the high explosive cases in the centre of the hatch. He went down into the hold, lifted up one of the cases, and 

called for the fire hose, which was passed to him by Private Edward Gimble, 1 st Battalion, Middlesex Regiment, who had 

followed him on board. This case, and the one next to it, were alight on their adjacent sides. Lieutenant-Commander Warden 

played the hose on them and extinguished the fire. 

Subsequent investigation showed that the fire was in all probability due to the ignition by friction or spontaneous combustion of 

amorphous phosphorus, which had leaked from boxes containing that substance stowed above the cases containing the high 

explosives. 

There is little doubt that the prompt and gallant action of Lieutenant-Commander Warden prevented an explosion which would 

have had serious and possibly disastrous results with almost certain loss of life. The Albert Medal of the Second Class has been 

awarded to Private Gimble. 



and Fire Brigades in the United Kingdom, the Empire of India, and His Majesty's Dominions beyond the Seas: —(L/G. 29938, 

12 th February 1917, pp. 1460.) 

Sidney Gompertz GAMBLE and Arthur Reginald DYER, Divisional Officers, London Fire Brigade. 

William GARDINER, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

10

Joseph GILLAN, Senior Superintendent, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

Whitehall, March 23, 1917. 

The KING was pleased, at Buckingham Palace, on Wednesday, the 2lst. instant, to present to Superintendent Robert John 

FORBES, of the Bradford City Fire Brigade, the Albert Medal of the Second Class for gallantry in saving life on land. (L/G 

30002, 27 th March 1917, pp. 2997.) 

On the 21st of August, 1916, at 2.30 p.m. a fire broke out at the works of the Low Moor Munition Company, Limited. Three 

motor fire engines answered the alarm, one of which, in charge of the Chief Officer, drove into the yard of the premises, where a 

violent explosion had already taken place, while the other two remained outside. Another explosion took place almost 

immediately, injuring the Chief Officer and his chauffeur, and stunning Superintendent Forbes. 

On recovery, Forbes went to the assistance of the Chief Officer and chauffeur, when a still more violent explosion occurred, 

killing seven firemen and seriously injuring twelve others, including Forbes. Forbes nevertheless brought the Chief Officer to a 

place of safety and returned and rescued two other injured firemen, who would otherwise have lost their lives. After driving the 

engines away from the yard, and thus saving them from damage, he collapsed. His injuries incapacitated him from duty for five 

weeks. 


The KING has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of His Majesty's Birthday, to give orders for the following promotions 

in, and appointments to, the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for services in connection with the War:— 

To be Members of the said Most Excellent Order:— (L/G 30730, 4 th. June 1918, pp. 6745.) 

Edward Thomas WHEELER, Esq. Chief Officer of the Fire Brigade at a National Filling Factory; (shell filling) for gallantry on 

the occasion of a serious fire and explosion. 



His Majesty The KING has been graciously pleased to award the King's Police Medal to the following Officers of Police Forces 

and Fire Brigades in the United Kingdom, India, and His Majesty's Dominions beyond the Seas:— (L/G. 31099, 31 st December 

1918, pp. 113.) 


Frederick Gibbons CROADSELL, Superintendent, Edmonton Fire Brigade. 

Alfred JOHNSON, Chief Officer, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. (For gallantry during an air raid – extinguishing a fire in an 

ammunition dump hit by a bomb. (‗Fire‘ magazine. March 1919, pp. 144) 

Alfred Robert TOZER, Chief Officer, Birmingham Fire Brigade. (In his 27 th year of service. ‗Fire‘ magazine, March 1919, pp. 

144) 

Frederick Bambridge WILLIS, Senior Superintendent, London Fire Brigade. 

John Morgan HOME (deceased), Second Officer, Southgate Volunteer Fire Brigade. 

Thomas Matthew CROWE, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Walter Knight HANSCOMBE (deceased), Fireman, Southgate Volunteer Fire Brigade. 

Hariph Robert TAYLOR, Fireman, Colne Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND. 

Police and Fire Brigades. 

William Anderson, Chief Constable, Aberdeen City Police. 

John McGimpsey, Chief Detective Inspector, City of Glasgow Police. 

James Sinclair WEIR, Firemaster, Dundee. 

Alexander Hay, Constable, Nairn County Constabulary. 

Alexander Macvicar, Constable, Inverness County Constabulary. 

IRELAND. 

Fire Brigade. 

Edward D'OYLE, Member of the City of Dublin Fire Brigade. 

Joseph LYNCH, Member of the City of Dublin Fire Brigade. 

PRESENTATION OF 

KING‘S POLICE MEDAL. 

The Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire recently presented King‟s Fire Medals to the following officers for gallantry at the great 

Morecombe Bay munitions fire in 1917. Eleven King‟s Medals were in all awarded in connection with this fire, brigades coming 

from nearly 60 miles distant with their motor fire engines. Most of the awards were announced in our issues for July and August 

last year. (source; ‗Fire‘ magazine, February 1919. Not found in the L/G, perhaps embargoed at that time for security reasons.) 

Fred BROCKLEHURST, deputy superintendant, Bolton Fire Brigade, 

W.B. HODGSON, superintendant, Morecambe Fire Brigade; 

D‟Arcy Benson MOFFATT, superintendant, Vickers Fire Brigade, Barrow. 

Richard NEWSHAM, superintendant, Barrow Corporation Fire Brigade. 

G.A. OAKES, deputy superintendant, Liverpool Fire Brigade, 

Alonzo SAVAGE, superintendant, Preston Fire Brigade, 

Daniel D. SLOANE, second officer, Manchester Fire Brigade, 

11

W.A. WEARING, Inspector, Lancaster Fire Brigade. 

It is puzzling that so few awards were made to Fire Service personnel during and immediately after the first World War. Almost 

certainly and totally understandably the nation‘s attention, at the time, was focused on foreign fields. The backlog of military 

awards and citations was not cleared until the early years of the new decade. 

In Birmingham, in February 1919, Fireman Dyche gave his life trying to rescue Stn.O. Moon, who also died, during a massive gas 

leak at a gas works in Birmingham. Dyche was posthumously honoured with a RoyalHumane Society award as well another from 

the Professional Fire Brigades Association. Nowadays, without doubt, such a sacrifice would be considered to be worthy af a 

State award. 


To be Knights Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— 

Raymond Herbert DENNIS, Esq. Services in connection with the supply of motor lorries and fire engines. ( Third Supplement to 

the L/G. 31840, 30 th March 1920, pp. 3757.) 

Lieutenant-Commander Sampson SLADEN, R.N. Late Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

James Clark TONER, Esq., J.P. Chief Officer, Birmingham Fire Brigade. 

To be Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: 

Francis James BELL, Esq. Chief Officer, Sorption Fire Brigade. (Third Supplement to the L/G 31840, 30 th March 1920, pp. 3816 

pp. 3828.). 

John FARMER, Esq. Chief Officer, Alford Fire Brigade. 

To be Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— 

Major Charles Prior LOVELOCK, T.D. Chief Officer, Carshalton Fire Brigade. pp. 3845. 

Alfred Robert TOZER, Esq. Chief Officer, Birmingham Fire Brigade. (Third Supplement to the L/G 31840, 30 th March 1920, pp. 

3808). 

July 7th, 1920. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to confer the Medal of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire upon the 

undermentioned persons for services in connection with the War which have been distinguished by great courage or selfsacrifice, 

or by exceptional merit: —(Second Supplement to the L/G 31967, 7 th July 1920, pp. 7301). 

ABBOTT, Edward James, Chief Officer, Barking Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire at a munitions factory. 

AINSCOUGH. Ralph, Fireman, Wigan Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire at an explosives factory. 

ALLAM, Francis, Fireman, West Ham Fire Brigade. 


ANDREWS, William, Fireman, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire at an ammunition store. 

ANGUS, Charles, Fire Master, Upper District of Renfrewshire Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire at a chemical works. 

ANSELL, Joseph William, Superintendent, London Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous ability and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire at a munitions factory. 

ARNOLD, William Richard, Fireman, Barking Fire Brigade. 


ASKEW, Tom, Captain, Sheerness Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty at fires caused by hostile aircraft, and in the rescue of persons from buildings 

wrecked by hostile aircraft. 

ATKINSON, Ernest, Superintendent, East Ham Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty at fires at a chemical works and a munitions factory. 

ATTWELL, Arthur Walter, Fireman, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of an explosion on board a torpedo boat, and at a fire at an 

ammunition store. 

AUSTIN, George Benjamin, Superintendent, Broadstairs Fire Brigade. 


BALCH, Sidney Thomas, Fireman, Sheerness Fire Brigade. 



BARBER, Arthur Edward, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty in the rescue of persons from buildings wrecked by hostile aircraft. 

BARNES, Frank, Second Officer, Accrington Fire Brigade. 


BATTEN, Albert George, First Engineer, Tipton Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire caused by hostile aircraft. 

BEST, Bertram Stanley Leopold, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


12

BINES, Thomas Cooper, Third Officer, Gillingham Volunteer Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty at fires caused by hostile aircraft. 

BISHOP, William Henry, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


BLAKEY, Harry, Fireman, Bradford Fire Brigade. 


BOOTH, James, Ex-Superintendent, Hull Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire on board a vessel loaded with explosives 

BOOTH, John, Fireman, Oswaldtwistle Fire .Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and. devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire at a chemical works. (Second Supplement to the L/G 

31967, 6 th. July 1920 pp. 7302). 

BOTTING, Frederick W. Fireman, Croydon Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire at a munitions factory, and in the rescue of persons from 

buildings wrecked by hostile aircraft. 

BRADDICK, Alfred, Sub-Officer, West Ham Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty at fires at munitions factories. 

BRAXTON, Frank, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty in the rescue of .persons from buildings wrecked by hostile aircraft. 

BREWER, Henry Edward, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


BREWER, William Edward, Fireman, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 



BRISLEY, Alfred. Edward, Engineer, Broadstairs Fire Brigade. 


BROCKES, William, Fireman, East Ham Fire Brigade. 


BRYANT, Edward James, Superintendent, Margate Fire Brigade. 


BULLEN, Robert Bertie, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


BURT, Richard, Superintendent, London Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous ability and devotion to duty at fires caused by hostile aircraft. 

BURTON, Robert Montague, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


CASTLE, William Walter, Fireman, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire at an ammunition dump. 

COLEMAN, Frederick Ambrose, Fireman, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 


DIXON, Engineer, Margate Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire at an ammunition store”. 

DUCKWORTH, John William, Fireman, Oswaldtwistle Fire Brigade. 


EDWARDS, Thomas, Superintendent, Willesden Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty in the rescue of persons from a building wrecked by hostile aircraft. 

ELLENDER, William, Fireman, Gillingham Volunteer Fire Brigade. 


EPPS, Stephen, Fireman, Cotton Powder Company's Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire at, an explosives factory. 

EXALL, John, Station Officer, West Ham Fire Brigade. 


FAIRLEY, William, Superintendent, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire on board a vessel loaded with explosives. 

FELTON, Charles Francis, Chief Officer, Bury St. Edmunds Fire Brigade. 


FOLEY, Herbert George, Fireman, Cotton Powder Company's Fire Brigade. 


FORROW, Thomas, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


FOUNTAIN, Daniel, Fireman, Watford Fire Brigade. 


FRANCE, Harold, Fireman, Bradford Fire Brigade. 


FRENCH, William, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 


13

GALLOWAY, Arthur Henry, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


GARDINER, George Broughton, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


GARDINER, William, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 


GIRVAN, Thomas, Fireman, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 


GOLDSMITH, Henry William, Fireman, West Ham Fire Brigade. 

GOODBOURN, Frank Richard, Motorman, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 



GOODE, James, Chief Officer, Norwich Fire Brigade, Faversham. 


GOODWIN, Arthur William Edward, Fireman, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of an explosion on board of a torpedo boat, and at a fire at an 

ammunition dump. 

GORMAN, William James, Fireman, West Ham Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to at fires at munitions factories. 

GOWLER, Willie, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


GRAVENER, J. H. Chief Officer, Baling Fire Brigade. 


GREENAWAY, Percy Albert, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


GREENLAND, Joseph Frederick, Fireman, Barking Fire Brigade. 


GREETHAM, John, Sergeant, Grimsby Volunteer Fire Brigade. 


GREIG, Alexander, Fireman, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 


GURDEN, Frederick, Fireman, East Ham Fire Brigade. 


HADGRAFT, Robert James, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


HAMMON, Charles George Henry, Fireman, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 



HAMPSHIRE, Edward, Fireman, East Ham Fire Brigade. 


HANCE, Frank, Assistant Sub-Officer, Kodak Fire Brigade. 


HARPER, Edward, Fireman, Margate Fire Brigade. 


HARRIS, James, Superintendent, Wembley Fire Brigade. 


HART, William, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and demotion to duty in the rescue of persons from buildings wrecked by hostile aircraft. 

HARVEY, William George, Chief Officer, Southend-on-Sea Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty at fires caused by hostile aircraft and in the rescue of persons from buildings 


HENLEY, Edward, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


HOLBROOK, Horace George, Fireman, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 



HOLBY, Edward, Driver, Romford Fire Brigade. 


HOLBY, George, Fireman, Romford Fire Brigade. 


HOLLIDAY, John Richard, Engineer, Romford Fire Brigade. 


HOLLINGSWORTH, David, Assistant Superintendent, East Ham Fire Brigade. 


14

HOLLINGTON, William, District Officer, London Fire Brigade. 


HOLT, Robert, Fireman, East Ham Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty at fires at chemical works. 

HUGHES, Thomas, Fireman, Barry Fire Brigade. 


JARMAN, Albert Steven, Fireman, Broadstairs Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire at an ammunition store. (Second Supplement to the L/G 

31967, 6 July 1920, pp. 7308.) 

JOHNSON, Harold Edwin, Second. Officer, Southend-on-Sea Fire Brigade. 



JONES, H. O. Chief Officer, Folkestone Fire Brigade. 


JONES, John, Fireman, Wigan Fire Brigade. 


JOWETT, Thomas Henry, Assistant Motor Engineer, Bradford Fire Brigade. 


LARKINS, Charles, Fireman, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 


LEDGER, Fountain Benjamin, Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 


LEGG, Fred, Acting Chief Officer, Reigate Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire on a train containing explosives. 

LANDER, Edward Albert, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 


LIVITT, Alexander P., Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty in the rescue of persons from, buildings wrecked by hostile aircraft. 

LLOYD, Thomas John, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty in the rescue of persons 

from buildings wrecked by hostile aircraft. 

LUCKES, Walter John Durant, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty in the rescue of persons from buildings wrecked by hostile aircraft. (Second 

Supplement to the L/G 31967, 6 July 1920, pp. 7309). 

MALPAS, David, Sub-Engineer, Margate Fire Brigade. 


MARTIN, Arthur George, Chief Officer, Gravesend Fire Brigade. 



MASSHEDER, Harry, Fireman, Bradford Fire Brigade. 


MATTHEWS, William, Captain, Barry Fire Brigade. 


MEYN, Ernest Leopold, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


MOORE, John Thomas, Fireman, Grimsby Volunteer Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire on board a vessel loaded with explosives 

NAIRNE, Albert Frederick, Coachman, Barnsgate Fire Brigade. 


NETHERCOAT, James Lewis, Fireman, Sheerness Fire Brigade. 



PALMER, John Edward, Fireman, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 



PINKHAM, Mark Lewis, Fireman, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 


PLEWIS, Joseph, Chief Officer, Gillingham Volunteer Fire Brigade. 


RECORD, James Reuben, Fireman, Sheerness Fire Brigade. 


RICHARDSON, Alfred, Fireman, Romford Fire Brigade. 


RIDDEN, James William, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


15

RIDGWAY, William Charles Albert, Fireman, West Ham Fire Brigade. 


PALEY, Eli Hudson, Sergeant, Church (Lancs.) Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire at a chemical works 

ROBERTS, Edwin Louis, Fireman, East Ham Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty at fires at a chemical works and a munitions factory 

ROBERTS, James, Third Officer, Accrington Fire Brigade. 


ROBINSON, Abraham, Superintendent, West Ham Fire Brigade. 


ROBINSON, George, Motor Driver, Watford Fire Brigade. 


RUCK, Alfred Henry, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


RYLANCE, Willie, Sergeant, Wigan. Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire at an explosives factory. (Second Supplement to the L/G 

31967, 6 July 1920, pp. 7312.) 

SAYEWELL Stephen Vidgeon, .Fireman, Cotton Powder Company‟s Fire Brigade. 


SCHOFIELD, Walter Phillip Church, (Lancs.) Fire Brigade. 


SCOTT, James, Chief Officer, Bradford Fire Brigade. 


SEMARK, Charles Henry, Chief Officer, Kent Fire Brigade, Faversham. 


SHALDERS, George Henry, Fireman, 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire on board a vessel laden with explosives. 

SHEPPARD, Alfred Theophilus, Fireman, Edmonton Fire Brigade. 


SKELTON, Henry, Third Officer. Grimsby Volunteer Fire Brigade. 


SMALL, John Ogilvie, Fireman. London Fire Brigade. 


SMALLEY, Edward, late Superintendent, Oswaldtwistle Fire Brigade. 


SMITH, Henry James Coachman. West Ham Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion at fires in ammunition factories. 

SMITH, William Fireman, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 


SMITH, William First Class Fireman, Upper District, Renfrewshire Fire Brigade. 


SOLLY, John, Fireman. Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 


SPURGEON James William. Sub Officer. London Fire Brigade. 


STELLING, Walter Fireman. Bradford Fire Brigade. 


STIFF, Samual Walter, First Officer, Margate Fire Brigade. 


STILL, Alfred James, Chief Officer, Southgate Fire Brigade. 


STONE, Harry Edmund, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


SUMNER, Albert Henry, Fireman, Kodak Fire Brigade. 

For great courage in continuing to work in a poisonous atmosphere, although repeatedly burned and gassed. 

TASSELL, Guy, Acting Captain, Faversham Volunteer Fire Brigade. 


TEBBEY, David William, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


TEMPLE, Albert Edward, Fireman, Broadstairs Fire Brigade. 


TESTA, Edwardo, Fireman, Margate Fire Brigade. 


16

TINGAY, Alfred, Second Officer, Ilford Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty at fires at a munitions factory and a chemical works. 

TINGAY, William, Fireman, Ilford Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty at fires at a munitions factory and a chemical works. 

TRIMMER, Alfred John, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


TURNER, Henry, Fireman, Broadstairs Fire Brigade. 


VANE, James, Fireman, Kodak Fire Brigade. 


VENES, James Thomas, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


WADDELL, William, Firemaster, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 


WADE, William John, Fireman, Barking Fire Brigade. 


WALKER, Richard Thomas, Superintendent, Church (Lancs.) Fire Brigade. 


WALLER, Arthur James, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


WALLER, George, Fireman, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 



WARE, Edward Samuel, Superintendent, Accrington Fire Brigade. 


WATERS, Harry Alfred, Second Officer, Gravesend Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty at fires caused by hostile aircraft and in the rescue of persons from buildings 

wrecked by hostile aircraft. (Second Supplement to the L/G 31967, 6 th July 1920, pp. 7314.) 

WATSON, Frederick, Fireman, Margate Fire Brigade. 


WATSON, George Henry, Second Officer, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 



WELLER, Alfred Albert, Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 


WHEATLEY, Charles Edward, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


WHITAKER, Ernest, Fireman, Bradford Fire Brigade. 


WICKERSON, Walter, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


WIGGINS, James Richard, ex-Captain, Wembley Fire Brigade. 


WILLIS, Joseph William, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


WILSON, Francis Charles, Fireman, Barking Fire Brigade. 


WISE, Richard, Fireman, Watford Fire Brigade. 


WITHALL, Thomas, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


WOODS, Zacry, Superintendent, Grimsby Volunteer Fire Brigade. 


WORRICKER, Joseph Thomas, Fireman, Barking Fire Brigade. 


YEOMANS, Walter, Fireman, Margate Fire Brigade. 


All the above received the British Empire Medal. (B.E.M.) 

17

NOT THE USUAL ORDER OF THINGS!. 

Member of the public rescues fireman. 

Whitehall, 12th July, 1920. 

His Majesty the KING has been graciously pleased to award the Edward Medal in silver to Jeffrey Fletcher (not Fire Brigade). 

under the following circumstances. —(L/G. 31983, Friday 16 th July 1920, pp. 7576.) 

Also the Edward Medal to James Rogerson Mann. (not Fire Brigade). 

At 9.30 a.m. on the 5th December, 1919, a fire broke out in one of the rooms on the middle floor of a five-storey cotton mill 

belonging to Messrs. N. Pickering and Sons, Limited, St. John Street, Bolton. The fire spread to the floors above, and whilst 

engaged in fighting the fire in the top room, one of the firemen of the Bolton Fire Brigade found himself cut off from the doorway 

and stairs by fire and smoke. The fire escape was at the opposite end of the building, and he was cut off from that also. He broke 

windows and called for help from those below and it was obvious that he was in a very dangerous position and likely to be 

overcome unless speedily rescued. 

Mann, who is employed at the mill, at once tied a rope round his waist and, after getting on to a one-storey shed, climbed the 

nearest water-spout to the windows of the top storey where the fireman was seen. On reaching the level of the window he untied 

the rope and handed it to the fireman, who tied it inside the building and then descended by it. Mann descended by the 

waterspout, which, being an old one, was liable to break away at any moment. There can be no doubt that Mann by his prompt 

and brave action saved the life of the fireman. 

Whitehall, October 5 th 1920. 

The KING, has been pleased to award the Albert Medal to Fireman Thomas William Brown, of the Newcastle-upon-Tyne Fire 

Brigade, in recognition of his gallantry in saving life in the following circumstances: —(L/G. 32078, 8 th October 1920, pp. 

9810.) 

On the 23rd December, 1919, at about 4 p.m, a fire, which speedily attained serious proportions, broke out at Cross House, 

Westgate Road, Newcastle-on-Tyne, in the basement of the building, where cases containing a large quantity of cinematograph, 

films were stored, and flames were quickly shooting up the lift shaft and the staircase. 

The work of the Fire Brigade was performed under most difficult and dangerous conditions, owing to the great heat, noxious 

fumes and explosions caused by the burning films. Flames were already shooting across the street on one side of the building 

when the Brigade arrived on the scene within a few seconds of the call having been received, and it was from the windows of the 

upper floors that a large number of the rescues were effected; the action of Fireman, Thomas William Brown in reaching the top of 

the building by means of a hook ladder being an outstanding feature of the work of rescue. 

A 50 ft. fire escape had been pitched on one side of the building, and Brown, having ascended the escape, fastened to a window on 

the fourth floor a 14 ft. hook ladder which he carried, and by this means enabled thirteen persons to escape. He then threw up the 

hook ladder to the main cornice above, which projected 2½ feet from the building, and with great coolness and daring ascended to 

the parapet, where he effected the rescue of three other persons by making fast the hook ladder in another position and attaching it 

to a 65 ft. escape. 

There was great risk of the hook slipping while the Fireman was ascending the ladder some 70 feet from the ground, seeing that by 

reason of the overhang of the cornice the ladder was clear of the wall. Upwards of 100 persons were in the building when the fire 

broke out. Twelve deaths resulted, 57 were rescued, while 50 others effected their escape from the windows of the lower floors. 

This incident is mentioned in Blackstone‘s ‗A History of the BRITISH FIRE SERVICE‘. Hook ladders remained ‗on the run‘ until 

the mid 1970‘s when an increasing awareness of safety brought about their demise. The compiler of this list, who spent many 

years of his fire service career as a trainer, never saw one accident during the many hook ladders drills he supervised; but bear in 

mind these drills were all conducted on a fire station tower with unglazed windows and wooden cills. 

In truth, hook ladders had become outmoded by the mandatory provision within buildings of a protected, structural means of 

escape. Additionally, the advent of toughened glazing made it impossible for the firefighter to use the bill of the hook ladder to 

break the glass in the window above. This gave access to the window sill which hopefully was wooden – a secure anchor for the 

hook with its vital serrations. 


Whitehall, 29th December, 1920. 

His Majesty the KING has been graciously pleased to award the King's Police Medal to the Officers of Police and Fire 

Brigades whose names appear below: —(Second Supplement to the L/G. 32178, 1 st. January 1921, pp. 9.) 


Allbert MILDON, Superintendent, London Fire Brigade. 

James William SPURGEON, Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Arthur William FENNER, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

George SLUMAN, Pilot, London Fire Brigade. (6 th January 1940; lost overboard at Lambeth, almost certainly from a fire boat, 

whilst serving as a river pilot for the L.F.B.) 

Samuel PENN, Police Inspector and Second Officer, Wolverhampton Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND, FIRE BRIGADE. 

John McGREGOR, Senior Superintendent, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

Knights. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to signify His Majesty's intention of conferring the honour of Knighthood on the 

following: —(Second Supplement to the L/G 32178, 1 st January 1921, pp. 3.) 

18

Captain Lionel de Lautour WELLS, C.B., C.M.G., O.B.K. R.N., late Chief Officer Metropolitan Fire Brigade. 

For public services. 

The following was promulgated in the L/G. ( L/G. 32209, 28 th January 1921, pp 777.) It announces the setting up of a Royal 

Commission to enquire into the provision of the nation‘s fire brigades. The names of the four ‗Fire Brigade‘ members are listed 

below and the names of the other members are given in the text. 

Whitehall, January 26 th 1921. 

The KING has been pleased to issue a Commission under His Majesty's Royal Sign Manual to the following effect: — GEORGE, 

R.I. 

GEORGE THE FIFTH, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and of the British, Dominions 

beyond the Seas King, Defender of the Faith, to Our Trusty and Well-beloved:— 

Sir Sampson SLADEN, Knight Commander of Our Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, Lieutenant-Commander on 

the Emergency List of Our Royal Navy, formerly Chief Officer of the London Fire Brigade; 

Arthur Lewis DIXON, Esquire, Commander of Our Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, Assistant Secretary, Home 

Office; The L/G 32209, 28 th January 1921, pp 777. (Dixon was a pivotal yet little known figure of the British Fire Service. In 

1937 he set up a programme for the provision of emergency pumps which were to prove invaluable a few years later. His 

memoirs, held by the Public Records Office, are of immense importance to the F.S. historian. They are not a difficult ‗read‘and 

contain a wealth of ‗real time‘ information.) (The L/.G. 32209, 28 th. January 1921, pp 777.) 

James Thomas BURNS, Esquire, Chief Officer of the Birkenhead Fire Brigade, and Honorary .Secretary of the Professional Fire 

Brigades Association; 

Hedley PETERS, Esquire, President of the National Fire Brigades Association; and Henry Edward 'Stilgoe, Esquire, Member of 

the Institution of Civil Engineers, Chief Engineer Metropolitan Water Board, (The names of all the members of the Royal 

Commission) 

Greeting! 

Whereas We have deemed it expedient that a Commission should forthwith issue to inquire into the existing provision for; 

(1) the avoidance of loss from, fire, including the regulations dealing with construction of buildings, dangerous processes and fire 

risks, generally, the arrangements for inquiry and research and for furnishing information and advice to public authorities and 

others on matters relating to fire prevention, and 

(2) the extinction of outbreaks of fire, including the control, maintenance, organization, equipment and training of Fire Brigades in 

Great Britain, and to report whether any, and if so what, changes are necessary, whether by statutory provision or otherwise, in 

order to secure the best possible protection of life and property against risks from fire, due regard being paid to considerations of 

economy as well as of efficiency: 

Now know ye, that We, reposing great trust and confidence in your knowledge and ability, have authorized and appointed, and do 

by these Presents authorize and appoint you, the said Sir Perceval Maitland Laurence (Chairman.); Sir Joseph Erneisti Petavel; Sir 

Sampson Sladen; Sir Vincent Henry Penalver Oaillard; Sir Maurice Fitzmaurice; Arthur Lewis Dixon; Guy Symonds; Vivian 

Leonard Henderson; James Thomas Burns; Hedley Peters and Henry Edward Stilgoe to be Our Commissioners for the purposes of 

the said inquiry: 

And for the better effecting the purposes of this Our Commission, We do by these Presents give and grant unto you, or any three 

or more of you, full power to call before you such persons as you shall judge likely to afford you any information upon the subject 

of this Our Commission; to call for information in writing; and also to call for, have access to and examine all such books, 

documents, registers and records as may afford you the fullest information on the subject, and to inquire of and concerning the 

premises by all other lawful way and means whatsoever: 

And We do by these Presents authorize and empower you, or any one or more of you, to visit and personally inspect such places as 

you may deem it expedient so to inspect for the more effectual carrying out of the purposes aforesaid: 

And We do by these Presents will and ordain that this Our Commission shall continue in full force and virtue, and that you, Our 

said Commissioners, or any three or more of you, may from time to time proceed in the execution thereof, and of every matter and 

thing therein contained, although the same be not continued from, time to time by adjournment: 

St. James's Palace, S.W. 1. 11 th November, 1921. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to approve of the award of the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order 

of the British Empire upon the undermentioned for (services in connection with the War, which have been distinguished by 

great courage or self-sacrifice, or by exceptional merit): —(The L/G. 32315, 11 th November 1921, pp. 8928.) 

McADIE, Donald, late Fireman in the Upper District of Renfrewshire Fire Brigade. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire at a chemical works in 1918. 

MACWILLIAMS, Frederick, late Deputy Firemaster of the Upper District of Renfrewshire. 

For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire at a chemical works in 1918. 

ROGERS, John, Fireman, East Ham Fire Brigade. For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty at fires at a chemical works and 

a munitions factory in 1915 and 1916. 

WOODS, Arthur, Sub-Engineer, Folkestone Fire Brigade. For conspicuous courage and devotion to duty on the occasion of a fire 

on board a transport in Folkestone Harbour in September, 1918. (perhaps the cargo ship ‗Onward‘). Obviously the firefighting 

operations were successful – the ship continued sailing until 1920!). 

19

Whitehall, 29 th December, 1921. 


Brigades whose names appear below: — (The L/G. 325633, 1 st December 1921, pp. 10717.) 



James Thomas BURNS, Chief Officer, Birkenhead Fire Brigade. 

Charles DIXON, Superintendent, Bromley Fire Brigade. 

John Jones, SERGEANT, Wigan Police Fire Brigade. 

Oswald HUTCHINSON, Constable, Leeds Police Fire Brigade. 


Whitehall, February 3, 1922. 

The KING has been pleased to give and grant unto Walter Ben Zappert Esq., Superintendent, Alexandria Municipal Fire Brigade, 

His Majesty's Royal licence and authority to wear the Insignia of the Fifth Class of the Order of the Nile, which Decoration has 

been conferred upon him, by His Highness the Sultan of Egypt in recognition of valuable services rendered by him. (L/G 32598, 

3 rd February 1922, pp. 954.) 


Whitehall, 22nd December, 1922. 


Brigades whose names appear below: —(Supplement to the L/G 32782, 1 st January 1923. pp. 12). 


Smollett Montgomerie EDDINGTON, Chief Officer of the Tottenham Fire Brigade. 

Alfred Edward SIBLEY, Senior Superintendent, London Fire Brigade. 

Raymond John LAW, Fireman, Tottenham Fire Brigade. 

William PEACHEY, Fireman, Tottenham Fire Brigade. 

His Majesty The KING has been graciously pleased to award the Edward Medal to George Livermore, a trainee at the Enham 

Village Centre for Disabled Ex-Service Men, in the following circumstances:—( L/G 32850, 3 rd August 1923, pp. 5325.) 

Livermore served in the Royal Air Force during the war and was discharged in 1919 with a disability pension on account of a gunshot 

wound in the foot. He was undergoing a course of training in French polishing at the Enham Village Centre, Andover, and on 

March 7th, 1923, was, together with other disabled men, in a room where some beeswax mixed with turpentine was being heated 

on a stove. This caught fire, and Livermore, realising the danger, seized a walking stick and with the crooked end lifted the 

blazing bucket and made for the door. His clothing was alight, but notwithstanding serious burns he gallantly made his way to the 

doorway, when he was compelled to drop the bucket. When the fire occurred some of the men in the room managed to escape 

through the windows but all the men were in various degrees disabled and some were unable to escape. As it was, some of the 

men were slightly burnt, while Livermore himself sustained severe injuries causing him intense suffering. He had to lose part of 

his left arm while his right hand and arm were severely burnt. There is no doubt that Livermore realised the danger to his 

comrades if the building caught fire and without hesitation risked his life on their behalf. 

30th November, 1923. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the following appointment to the Most Honourable Order of the Bath: 

—To be a Member of the Military Division of the Third Class, or Companions, of the said Most Honourable Order:—(L/G 

32884, 30 th November 1923, pp. 8323.) 

Surgeon Commander William Perceval KINGSTON, R.N. 

In recognition of the gallant conduct displayed and. the valuable services rendered on the occasion in September last of the 

destruction by earthquake and fire of the R.N. Sick Quarters, Yokohama, when by his gallantry and presence of mind he was the 

direct means of saving the lives of the large number of refugees who sought escape from the fire in the Hospital Grounds. 


Whitehall, 17th December, 1923. 

His Majesty The KING has been graciously pleased to award the King's Police Medal to the Officers of Police and Fire 

Brigades whose names appear below: —(Supplement to the L/G 32893, 1 st January 1924, pp. 7.) 



Major Cyril Clarke Boville MORRIS. M.C., M.I.M.E., Senior Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Arthur E. CORLETT, O.B.E., Superintendent of the Manchester (Police) Fire Brigade. 

John W. DANE, Chief Officer, Croydon Fire Brigade. 

Henry Stancliff LEEDOM, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

War Office, llth. July, 1924. 

His Majesty the KING has been graciously pleased to approve of the undermentioned rewards for gallant conduct in the 

performance of military duty :— (Supplement to the L/G 32855, 11 th July 1924, pp. 5320.) 

Awarded a Bar to the Meritorious Service Medal. 

20

Military Service Medal (gazetted 16th October, 1919.) 

COLEMAN, T. J. (Billericay).ROYAL ARMY SERVICE CORPS. M/19684. Pte. (A/Sjt.) 

This N.C.O. was directly in charge of the British Fire Brigade at Constantinople, and in this capacity has been present at about 200 

fires during the period of 22 months. The gallantry and devotion to duty displayed by this N.C.O. have resulted his the prevention 

of great material destruction, and in the saving of many lives. Regardless of danger he has invariably placed himself in the 

position from which he could best direct the work of the Brigade, and has on several occasions, only escaped death by the closest 

margin. 


Whitehall, 31 st December, 1924. 


Brigades whose names appear below: —(Supplement to the L/G 37007, 1 st January 1925, pp. 6.) 

FIRE BRIGADE. 

Henry NEAL, Chief Officer, Leicester Fire Brigade. 


His Majesty The KING has been graciously pleased to award the Edward Medal to Mrs. Lilian Peyto, employed by Messrs. 

Holdsworth Bros., at White Hart Road, Plumstead. in the following circumstances: —(L/G 33079, 28 th August 1925, pp. 5697.) 

Mrs. Lilian Peyto is employed at the Pactory of Messrs. Holdsworth Bros., at White Hart Road, Plumstead, where flock is 

manufactured. The flock is delivered from rag grinding machines and falls to the floor in heaps and is them packed by women 

into large sacks. On the 17th June, 1925, a woman named Rose Wade was working at one of these machines, which was placed in 

a corner, and the woman was between the machine and the wall of the Factory. The flock which was being delivered from the 

machine suddenly caught fire and the fire spread immediately to the heap of flock which was being placed in the bag by Rose 

Wade. The woman's clothes, which were covered with small particles of flock, caught fire and there was fire all round the 

machine. Rose Wade tried to run out from behind the machine but stumbled and fell. Mrs. Peyto, who was working on the other 

side of the machine, rushed to her assistance, caught hold of her and tried to drag her clear. A heavy sack of waste material which 

was suspended behind the machine and which had itself caught fire fell down on the girl and forced Mrs. Peyto to leave go. She 

again, however, went to Rose Wade's assistance and this time was able to drag her out of the flames a good distance. All the other 

women working in the neighbourhood appear to have been too horror-stricken to render help and left the dangerous area as 

quickly as possible. After Mrs. Peyto had dragged the burning woman away from the fire, a foreman came up and covered her 

with sacks, but Rose Wade died as a result of her injury. 

Mrs. Peyto's attempt at rescue was attended with grave risks, as Rose Wade was surrounded with flames and the clothing of Mrs. 

Peyto herself might easily have caught fire. Her second and successful attempt to get the woman clear after the burning bag of 

material had fallen on her showed special courage. 

Whitehall, July 17, 1925. 

His Majesty The KING has been graciously pleased to award the Edward Medal in recognition of the gallantry of the late Mr. 

Hugh Frederick Moodie and the late Mr. John Borland Brown, who gave their lives on the occasion of a serious fire at the 

Bellbird Colliery, New South Wales, in September, 1923, in a gallant attempt to save the lives of their comrades: — (L/G 33080, 

1 st September 1925, pp. 5765). 

The fire started just after the afternoon shift had commenced work. Moodie, a deputy on the afternoon shift, entered the mine 

about 1 p.m. and was proceeding to his work when he met the day-shift deputies returning, who reported that all was in order. 

He continued on his way but soon encountered dense smoke. He went back to the day-shift deputies, told them what he had found 

and then went forward alone to try to rescue his men. He was an experienced deputy and must have been fully aware of the risk 

he was taking. 

He was not seen alive again, but when the mine was re-opened his body was found in a position which showed that he must have 

travelled over a thousand yards in his efforts to save the men. At about 2.30 p.m, on the same day Brown and other volunteers 

from neighbouring collieries entered the mine on rescue work. They found two men, one of whom it was thought might be alive, 

but the air was so bad that the rescuers were forced to retreat. 

After two further attempts Brown was successful in reaching the bodies and spent twenty minutes in a vain attempt at 

resuscitation. He then, accompanied by another man, pushed on but was driven back by foul air and returned to the surface to 

organise rescue parties. He descended with one party, recovered four bodies and took them safely to the surface. He then 

descended for the third time and penetrated to the most forward point then reached, when an, explosion occurred. Brown was 

seriously affected by the fumes and urged his companions to leave him and go on. His companions tried to help him, but in 

response to his urgent entreaties finally left him lying in the tunnel where his body was afterwards discovered. 


Whitehall, December 31 st 1925. 

His. Majesty The KING has been graciously pleased to award the King's Police Medal to the Officers of Police and Fire 

Brigades whose names appear below:— (L/G. 33119, 1 st January 1926, pp. 8.) 


William HOILINGTON, Senior Superintendent, London Fire Brigade. 

Howard BECKWITH, Superintendent, Stockport Police Fire Brigade. 

William WILMSHURST, Fireman, London-Fire Brigade. 

21

The KING has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of His Majesty's Birthday, to give orders for the following promotions 

in, and appointments to, the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire to be dated the 5th June, 1926: — 

To be Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:—(L/G. 33179, 2 nd July, 1926, pp. 4410.) 

Hedley PETERS, Esq., J.P., Chief Officer of the Sittingbourne Fire Brigade. For public services. 




Brigades whose names appear below:—(Supplement to the L/G 33235, 1 st. January 1927, pp. 7.) 


For a Bar to the King's Police Medal. 

John JONES, Sergeant, Wigan Borough Police Fire Brigade. 

For the King's Police Medal. 

Albert Victor ARMSTRONG, Sub-Officer. London Fire Brigade. 

Willie RYLANCE, Inspector, Wigan Borough Police Fire Brigade. 

John FARMERY, M.B.E., Superintendent, Ilford Fire Brigade. 

John Richard EXALL, Second Officer, West Ham Fire Brigade. 


The KING has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of His Majesty's Birthday, to approve of the Award of the Medal of the 

Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire to the undermentioned:— 

For Meritorious Service. (Supplement to the L/G 33390, 1 st June 1928, pp. 3861/2.) 

Thomas JONES, Fireman, Lytham-St. Annes Fire Brigade. 

Henry KIRKHAM, Fireman, Lytham-St. Annes Fire Brigade. 


Whitehall, February 28, 1929. 


Brigades whose names appear below:— (Second Supplement to the L/G 33472, 26 th February 1929, pp. 1445.) 

ENGLAND AND WALES 


George Joseph MURRELL, Senior Superintendent, London Fire Brigade. 

Joseph ENTWISLE, Second Officer, Farnworth Urban District Fire Brigade. 




Brigades whose names appear below:— (Supplement to the L/G 33566, 1 st January 1930, pp. 12.) 


FIRE BRIGADE. 

Herbert. NORTH, Inspector, Hull City Police Fire Brigade 

Charles Wright TOZER, Second Officer, Birmingham Fire Brigade. 

NORTHERN IRELAND FIRE BRIGADE. 

James HEATHER, Second Officer, Newry Fire Brigade. 



Brigades whose names appear below. (L/G 33675, 1 st January 1931, pp. 15.) 


FIRE BRIGADES. (* for Gallantry.) 

*Tom James SMITH, Chief Officer, St. Austell (Volunteer) Fire Brigade. (A rare example of an award of the gallantry variant of 

this medal. Tom‘s name continues to be remembered at the Station – a room is named after him. .A newspaper report of the 

incident can be found at the end of this list.) 

Arthur Henry DRAKE, Chief Officer, Coventry Fire Brigade. 

Joseph James MOORE, Senior Superintendent, London Fire Brigade. 

*His Majesty has also graciously consented to the King's Police Medal being handed to the next-of-kin of the undermentioned 

officer, who was killed on duty on the 14th December, 1930, and would have received the decoration had he survived. 




Brigades whose names appear below: — (L/G., 33785, 29 th December 1931, pp. 13.) 

22


FIRE BRIGADES. - 

Herbert BURROWS, Fire Superintendent, Newcastle-on-Tyne Fire Brigade. 

William GOOCH, Superintendent, Burton-on Trent Fire Brigade. 

Horace Sampson LYNE, M.B.E., Chief of the Newport (Monmouthshire) Fire Brigade: 

Whitehall, September 14, 1932. 

This award does not mention the local fire brigade and so is not strictly within reference of this list. It is included here because it 

defines both great heroism and a great national tragedy. Almost certainly, this was an ‗in house‘ job carried out without the 

involvement of municipal fire brigade . (L/G 33868, 30 th September 1932, pp. 6170.) 

His Majesty The KING has been graciously pleased to award the Edward Medal in Silver to Ernest Allport, Edgar Hamilton 

Frazer, Samuel Jarrett Temperley and John Ward, and the Edward Medal to Richard Edward Darker, Oliver Soulsby, Frank 

Sykes and Phillip William Yates in recognition of their gallantry in the following circumstances: — 

At 5.45 in the afternoon of the 20 th November last a violent explosion of firedamp, followed by fires, occurred in the North East 

District of the Bentley Colliery, Yorkshire. Of some 47 persons working at or near the coal face, 45 were either killed or died 

later. A large number of persons rendered heroic assistance in the work of rescue; and after careful investigation the eight persons 

named appear to have displayed special gallantry. 

Ward, a pony driver, who was near an adjacent part of the coal face, was blown off his feet and enveloped in a thick cloud of dust, 

but as soon as he recovered himself went on his own initiative towards the face, guiding himself by rails and tubs, and assisted an 

injured man towards a place of safety. He repeatedly returned towards the face and helped to extricate injured men and bring them 

away; and he continued at rescue work for three hours, until completely exhausted. His bravery in groping his way towards 

danger, immediately after being knocked down by the blast, was outstanding. 

Darker, Soulsby, Sykes and Yates also displayed great gallantry and perseverance in extricating the injured and conveying them to 

a place of safety. It will be appreciated that the atmosphere was hot and vitiated and that there was evident risk of further 

explosions. 

One such explosion actually occurred at 10.30 p.m. injuring members of a rescue party, as mentioned below, and a third explosion 

occurred later. 

Allport, Temperley and Frazer were prominently concerned with rescues from the area of the fires, which was explored somewhat 

later and in which the danger was extreme. Temperley, an assistant surveyor at the colliery, volunteered to lead a rescue brigade 

to the return airway, where some men were still alive, by way of the face, there being a fire on the direct route. On the journey an 

explosion occurred severely burning three members of the party. The party then returned, but Temperley, though not equipped 

with breathing apparatus, went on, with one of the Mines Inspectors, as far as the entrance to the airway and subsequently helped 

to carry out an injured man past one of the fires and rendered other help. Allport, a member of the colliery Rescue Team, took a 

prominent part in the rescue operations, displaying energy, initiative and bravery, and encouraging other rescue men. He was over 

three hours in breathing apparatus and during part of the night, when his rescue apparatus required replenishing, he assisted in 

loading men on to stretchers. Subsequently, in answer to a call for volunteers after the. second explosion, he seized a breathing 

apparatus, and joined a rescue party which penetrated past a fire to rescue two other men. Frazer, who is H.M. Divisional 

Inspector of Mines, explored much of the most dangerous area, displaying great gallantry in venturing among flames, smoke and 

afterdamp though not provided with a breathing apparatus; on hearing moaning in the return airway he ran back to summon a 

rescue party, but returned to the airway without waiting for them. He subsequently remained in the most dangerous area assisting 

to organise rescue operations and helped to take out past a fire two men rescued from the airway; and although exhausted he 

continued his efforts, until all the men, dead or alive, who were reported to be in the district had been extricated. 

Whitehall; December 31, 1932. 


Brigades whose names appear below: —(L/G. 33898, 30 th December 1932, pp. 14.) 

SCOTLAND. 

FIRE BRIGADE. 

FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE. 

William MACKAY, Deputy Firemaster, Dundee 


Whitehall, December 27, 1933. (Supplement to The London Gazette 34009, 29 th December 1933, pp. 8426.) 

The KING has been pleased to issue a Warrant under His Majesty's Royal Sign Manual, to the following effect:— 

GEORGE R. I. 

GEORGE THE FIFTH, by the Grace of God, of Great Britain, Ireland and the British Dominions beyond the Seas King, Defender 

of the Faith, Emperor of India, to all to whom these Presents shall come: 

GREETING ! 

Whereas His late Majesty King Edward the Seventh did by Warrant under His Royal Sign Manual, bearing date the seventh 

day of July, one thousand nine hundred and nine, institute and create a new medal to be styled the King's Police Medal: 

Compilers underling and emboldment. 

And whereas the fifth and seventh clauses of the said Royal Warrant were amended by Warrants under Our Sign Manual bearing 

date respectively the third day of October, one thousand nice hundred and sixteen and the first day of October, one thousand nine 

hundred and thirty: 

23

And whereas We are minded to make certain further amendments to the said Royal Warrant of the seventh day of July, one 

thousand nine hundred and nine: Now know ye that We do by these Presents for Us, Our Heirs and Successors abrogate the 

second, third, fifth and sixth clauses of the said Royal Warrant of the seventh day of July, one thousand nine hundred and nine, 

and the whole of the said Royal Warrant of the third day of October, one thousand nine hundred and sixteen, and in lieu thereof 

We Ordain that the following clauses shall be substituted: 

Secondly.—It is ordained that the King's Police Medal shall consist of a circular Medal of Silver with Our Effigy on the obverse, 

and shall bear on the reverse a design emblematic of Protection from danger and the words "For Gallantry" or "For Distinguished 

Service," as the case may be, and on the rim the name of the person to whom the Medal has been awarded. 

Thirdly.—It is ordained that the Medal shall only be awarded to those of Our Faithful Subjects and others who, being members of 

a recognised Police Force or of a properly organized Fire Brigade (compiler‘s emboldment and underlining) within Our 

Dominions or in Territories under Our Protection or Jursidiction, have either performed acts of exceptional courage and skill or 

exhibited conspicuous devotion to duty; and that such award shall be made only on a recommendation to Us by Our Principal 

Secretary of State for the Home Department. 

(Strangely, there is no fourth section – or is this a computer error?) 

Fifthly.—It is ordained that each Medal shall be suspended from the left -breast, and the riband, of an inch and three-eighths in 

width, shall be dark blue with a narrow silver stripe on either side and a similar silver stripe in the middle; and that in the case of 

awards for acts of exceptional courage each silver stripe of the riband shall contain a thin red line down the middle. 

Sixthly.—It is ordained that any act of gallantry which is worthy of recognition by the award of the King's Police Medal, but is 

performed by one upon whom the Decoration has already been conferred, may, on a recommendation to Us by Our Principal 

Secretary of State for the Home Department, be recorded by a Bar attached to the riband by which the Medal is suspended. For. 

every such additional act an additional Bar may be added and for each Bar awarded a small silver rose shall be added to the riband 

when worn alone. 

Given at Our Court at Saint James's the Twelfth day of December, 1933; in the Twenty-fourth Year of Our Reign. 

By His Majesty's Command, John Gilmour. 

ROYAL CORPS OF SIGNALS. (The L/G, 33924, 24 th March, 1933, pp. 2041.) 

Maj. (Qr.-Mr.) S. C. R. Usher, M.C., is transfd. to the Extra Regtly. Empld. List, on appt. as Inspr. of Fire Servs. at the War 

Office. 23rd Mar. 1933. 




Brigades whose names appear below:— 

Fire Brigades: England and Wales. (Supplement to the L/G, 34010, 29 th December, pp. 15.) 

FOR GALLANTRY. 

Francis Henry HEYWOOD, Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Fire Brigades: England and Wales. 


Archibald BAKER, Superintendent, London Fire Brigade. 

William TOZER, Chief Officer, West Bromwich Fire Brigade. 

2nd March, 1934. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to approve of the Award of the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order 

of the British Empire to the undermentioned:— (Supplement to the L/G, 34029, 2 nd March 1934, pp. 1422.) No mention is made 

in this citation of the attendance of the local fire brigade. 


Sister Dorothy Louise Thomas, Middlesex Hospital. 

For an heroic and self-sacrificing action in averting a catastrophe after an explosion in the Main Theatre at the Middlesex Hospital. 

On a morning in January the Dispensary porter was changing the reducing valve on a large oxygen cylinder in the anaesthetic 

room of the Main Ground Floor Theatre when an explosion occurred. The explosion took place as soon as he had turned the 

oxygen on and was probably due to a piece of grit violently impinging upon the reducing valve and causing a spark. 

Following the explosion the issuing oxygen caught fire and a stream of sparks and flames shot through the open door of the 

anaesthetic room across the Theatre for a distance of about 15 feet. Onlookers described the burning cylinder as being most 

alarming, and there was a general fear that it would explode at any moment. The Theatre was immediately vacated. Sister 

Thomas stopped behind until all were clear and then removed the ether from the anaesthetic room and shut the doors with the idea 

of minimising the effect of the explosion which she expected. After a moment's reflection, however, she decided that it was her 

duty to try to avert the wrecking of the Theatre, re-entered the anaesthetic room, ran up to the cylinder and turned it off by the tap 

below the valve. 

The intensity of the burning was evidenced by the fact that the steel neck, or collar, of the reducing valve was partly burned away. 

Sister Thomas showed great bravery and coolness as she and all present believed that the cylinder might blow up at any moment. 


Congratulatory Addresses and Resolutions on the completion of the Twenty-fifth Year of His Majesty's Reign have been received 

by the Secretary of State for the Home Department from the undermentioned bodies and persons for Presentation to His Majesty, 

24

and have been presented accordingly:—(Supplement to the L/G, 34183, 24 th July 1935, pp. 4831). About 1,000 organisations 

wrote to express their congratulations and included were the; 

National Fire Brigades Association 

Professional Fire Brigades Association. 

Whitehall, October 14, 1935. 

His Majesty The KING has been graciously pleased to award the Edward Medal in Silver to the late Ernest Reid Powell in 

recognition of his gallantry in the following circumstances :—(The L/G. 34217, 8 th November 1935, pp. 7039/40.) 

On the 2nd August, 1935, a fire broke out in the ground floor premises of the building at 2, Amelia Street, Belfast, in which Mr. 

Powell was employed as managing director of a firm of handkerchief manufacturers. The ground floor was occupied by a firm of 

wholesale confectioners and instead of first giving an immediate alarm the staff on this floor endeavoured vainly to extinguish the 

flames, which had obtained a good hold before the workers on the upper floors became aware of the danger. 

When the danger became known, several women and girls escaped from the first and third floors by means of the main staircase 

and about forty women and female young persons on the second floor also proceeded to escape in the same way. A number 

succeeded, being assisted by Mr. Powell who was in his office at the commencement of the outbreak and who was subsequently 

seen on two occasions assisting women down the stairs and out of the building. 

In the meantime the heat and smoke had much increased and the remaining women were unable or unwilling to descend by the 

front stairway. Efforts were made to induce them to try the back stairway, but without success. 

A few were assisted through a window to the flat roof of an adjoining building, and the others, more or less panic-stricken, made 

for the front windows which the Fire Brigade officers were then preparing to enter. Mr. Powell was in the street at this juncture, 

but observing the plight of the women at the windows, he again groped his way up the smoke-laden stairs to the second floor, 

endeavoured to calm them, and shepherded them one by one through the windows to the firemen who, by means of a portable 

escape, conveyed them to the street. 

During these rescue operations Mr. Powell sustained severe burns to eyes, face, scalp, neck, hands, arms and legs, and he died two 

days later from shock following these injuries. From special enquiry and the evidence of eye witnesses it is clear that Mr. Powell 

risked his life consciously and deliberately to save the lives of a number of employees of the firm and that the injuries which he 

sustained were cumulatively acquired in long-sustained and repeated exposure to death in one of its most terrifying forms. 


Whitehall, January 1, 1936.His Majesty The KING has been graciously pleased to award the King's Police Medal to the 

Officers of Police and Fire Brigades whose names appear below:— 

Fire Brigades: England and Wales. (L/G, 34238, 31 st December 1935, pp. 17.) 


Percy George WALDREN, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Whitehall, April 7, 1936. 

His Majesty The KING has been graciously pleased to award the Edward Medal to George William Beaman, Norman Baster 

and James Pollitt, in recognition of their gallantry in the following circumstances (The L/G, 34275, 17 th April 1936, pp. 2485.) 

On the evening of the 22nd August, 1935, two explosions occurred at South Kirkby Colliery, Yorkshire, in a district about 1¾ 

miles from the shaft. It was thought that these were due to a gob fire and it was decided to seal off a part of the district by erecting 

stoppings. 

At 3 p.m. on the 23rd August this work was in progress, and there were 21 men in the district, some near to the face and the others, 

of whom Beaman was one, at distances varying up to some 100 yards away. A further explosion then took place, severely injuring 

a number of the men. Beaman and two others, who had rescue apparatus, at once proceeded to look for and succour the injured, 

and with the assistance of others who followed shortly afterwards ten men were carried out of the district alive. One died almost 

immediately, eight within a few days, and one recovered. 

During the progress of these operations, which involved repeated journeys to and from the face, some of the rescuers who were 

not equipped with special apparatus were considerably affected by fumes. It was found that everyone had been accounted for 

except a man named Dale; and although there was an increasing risk of a further explosion owing to accumulations of gas the 

search for him was renewed by Baster, who was the colliery agent, with the manager and four rescue men, including a man named 

Ball. They located Dale but he was found to be dead. They proceeded to remove his body, but while they were doing so a further 

explosion occurred and all six members of the party were burned. This explosion was severe enough not only to cause injury to 

the rescue party, who were comparatively near the face, but to affect those nearer the shaft who were looking after the men first 

injured. 

Baster got back and did what was possible to reassure these men and then with three others (of whom Beaman was one) he went in 

and removed Dale's body and later went in again for a certain distance to look for Ball, one of the rescue party injured by the 

second explosion, who was said to be missing. Baster, who had no apparatus, was this time so much affected by fumes and 

fatigue that he had to retire, but Beaman and another man conducted some further search without success. It was then reported 

that Ball had reached the shaft. 

Later in the evening, however, after the rescue parties had left the mine, it was found that Ball was after all still missing. There 

were reasons for fearing that a further explosion might shortly occur and that a fresh search might only swell the casualty roll; but 

volunteers were anxious to descend the mine and make a further attempt, and one of the rescue parties so formed entered the 

district and succeeded in finding Ball and bringing him safely to the surface. 

25

In this final operation, which was conducted at once with determination and prudence, J. Pollitt acted as captain of the rescue 

party. Great courage and pertinacity were displayed by many others who took part in these operations and it has not been easy, to 

discriminate between those concerned, but it is considered that Beaman rendered services of outstanding merit in the first stage, 

Baster in the second stage and Pollitt in the final stage of the rescue operations. 

Not a fire brigade operation but undoubtedly a fine, arduous, rescue undertaken in extremely hazardous conditions. The report of 

‗missing‘ men, the shortage of breathing apparatus, and the risk of further explosions are all more than enough to give modern 

Health and Safety practices a good name! 

The Fire Service participated in the funeral of King George V. This was as reported in the London Gazette 34729 dated 28 th April 

1936, and the section of the report concerning the Fire Service involvement is repeated here. (Author‘s emboldenment of this 

section) 

WEDNESDAY, 29 APRIL, 1936 

CEREMONIALS OBSERVED AT THE FUNERAL AND LYING IN STATE OF HIS LATE 

MAJESTY KING GEORGE THE FIFTH 

OF BLESSED MEMORY. 

FROM SANDRINGHAM TO WESTMINSTER HALL, 

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23 rd , 1936. 

A detachment from the City and Borough Police Forces of England and Wales, consisting of one representative of each force. 

J. Gauld, Esq., O.B.E., 

Chief Constable of Aberdeenshire. 

Superintendent W. Rae, M.B.E. Superintendent A. Aitken, 

(Edinburgh City Police Force). (Lanarkshire Constabulary). 

A detachment from the Scottish County, City and Burgh Police Forces, 

consisting of one representative of each force. 

H. Connor, Esq., 

County Inspector, Royal Ulster Constabulary. 

A detachment from the Royal Ulster Constabulary. 

Fire Brigade Contingent. 

Major. C.B. Morris, M.C., 

Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Lieutenant J. Fordham, R.N., 

Assistant Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

A detachment from the London Fire Brigade. 

FOURTH DIVISION OF ESCORT, Royal Horse Guards. 

Minute Guns were fired from Hyde Park while the Procession moved from Westminster Hall 

to Paddington Station. 

On arrival at Paddington Station the Coffin was taken from the Gun Carriage by the Bearer 

Party of the Brigade of Guards and placed in the Royal Train, which conveyed The King and 

the other Royal Personages to Windsor. 

Since the publication of the Supplement to the London Gazette of the 3rd April, 1936, Addresses and Resolutions expressive of 

sympathy with His Majesty King Edward the Eighth and the Royal Family on the occasion of the lamented death of His late 

Majesty King George the Fifth, and of Congratulation to The KING upon His Majesty's Accession to the Throne, have been 

received by the Secretary of State for the Home Department from the undermentioned Bodies for presentation to His Majesty and 

have been presented accordingly:— 

National Fire Brigades Association (L/G. 34280, 1 st May 1936, pp. 2791.) 

King‘s Police Medal. 

The following appeared in the London Gazette 34355, 29 th December 1936, pp. 8416. 

Whitehall, December 23, 1936. 

The KING has been pleased to issue a Warrant under His Majesty's Royal Sign Manual to the following effect: — 

GEORGE R.I. 

GEORGE THE SIXTH, by the Grace of God of Great Britain, Ireland and the British Dominions beyond the Seas King, Defender 

of the Faith, Emperor of India, to all to whom these Presents shall come: 

Greeting! 

26

Whereas his late Majesty King Edward the Seventh did by Warrant under His Royal Sign Manual, bearing date the seventh day of 

July, one thousand nine hundred and nine, institute and create a new medal to be styled the King's Police Medal: 

And whereas the said Royal Warrant was amended by Warrants under the Sign Manual of His late Majesty King George the Fifth 

bearing date respectively the third day of October, one thousand nine hundred and sixteen, the first day of October, one thousand 

nine hundred and thirty and the twelfth day of December, one thousand nine hundred and thirty-three; and by Warrant under the 

Sign Manual of Our Royal Predecessor His Majesty King Edward the Eighth bearing date the twenty-fifth day of May, one 

thousand nine hundred and thirty-six: 

And whereas We are desirous of further amending the second and third clauses of the Royal Warrant of the seventh day of July, 

one thousand nine hundred and nine, as altered by the Royal Warrants of the twelfth day of December, one thousand nine hundred 

and thirty-three, and the twenty-fifth day of May, one thousand nine hundred and thirty-six respectively: 

Now know ye that We do by these Presents for Us, Our Heirs and Successors abrogate the second clause of the said Royal 

Warrant of the twelfth day of December, one thousand nine hundred and thirty-three, and the said Royal 

Warrant of the twenty-fifth day of May, one thousand nine hundred and thirty-six, and in lieu thereof substitute the following 

clauses: — 

Secondly—It is ordained that the King's Police Medal shall consist of a circular Medal of Silver with the effigy of the Sovereign 

on the obverse, and shall bear on the reverse a design emblematic of Protection from danger and the words "For Gallantry" or "For 

Distinguished Service" as the case may be and on the rim the name of the person to whom the Medal has been awarded. 

Thirdly—It is ordained that the Medal shall only be awarded to those of Our Faithful Subjects and Others who have either 

performed acts of exceptional courage and skill or exhibited conspicuous devotion to duty as members of a recognised Police 

Force or of a properly organised Fire Brigade (compiler‘s bold face and underlining) within Our United Kingdom of Great 

Britain and Northern Ireland Our Indian Empire or any of Our Colonies or any territory under Our protection or jurisdiction not 

being administered by Us in Our Government in any other part of Our Dominions; or within any other part of Our Dominions Our 

Government whereof has signified its desire that the Medal should be awarded under the provisions of this Our Warrant to 

members of any such Force or Brigade within such part, or within any territory under Our Protection or jurisdiction being 

administered by Us in such Government; and that such award shall be made only on a recommendation to Us by Our Principal 

Secretary of State for the Home Department. 

Given at Our Court at St. James's the fifteenth day of December, 1936; in the First Year of Our Reign. 


It would appear that no awards were made to members of the nation‘s fire brigades in 1937. How things were to change in a few 

years time! 

Whitehall, July 9, 1937. 

Congratulatory Addresses and Resolutions on the occasion of Their Majesties' Coronation have been received by the Secretary of 

State for the Home Department from the undermentioned Bodies, for Presentation to His Majesty, and have been presented 

accordingly:—(L/G. 34418, 16 th July 1937, pp. 4580.) 

Stourbridge Fire Brigade. 

The following appeared in the London Gazette, 34420, 23 rd July 1937, pp. 4731. 

Whitehall, July 22 nd ., 1937. 

The following Address was presented to The KING on the occasion of the opening by His Majesty of the new Headquarters of 

the London Fire Brigade at Lambeth on the 21st July, 

1937: — 

To THE KING'S MOST EXCELLENT MAJESTY. THE LOYAL AND DUTIFUL ADDRESS OF THE COUNCIL OF THE 

ADMINISTRATIVE COUNTY OF LONDON. 

“May it please Your Majesty, We, the Chairman, Aldermen and Councillors of the London County Council, representing the 

people of Your Majesty's Capital, desire to express most grateful appreciation of the honour conferred upon the Council and 

London by Your Majesty's presence to open these new Headquarters of the London Fire Brigade. 

Since the formation over a century ago of London's first corporate fire brigade upon the initiative of the insurance companies, fire 

fighting in London has undergone constant development. New means have to be devised to meet the ever-growing demands and 

risks of changing conditions, and to-day the London Fire Brigade, with its splendid traditions of efficiency and devotion to duty, is 

a great protective organisation of which we are justly proud and which can fairly claim to rank amongst the best in the world. The 

increasing activities of the Brigade and its necessary reorganisation rendered obsolete and inadequate the headquarters occupied 

for sixty years in Southwark Bridge Road; and the Council has, therefore, erected these new headquarters, which are fitted with 

the best equipment science can at present provide for the assistance of the Brigade in its beneficent work for London. The 

buildings were designed and planned by the Architect to the Council, Mr. E. P. Wheeler, F.R.I.B.A., assisted by Mr. G. Weald, 

F.R.I.B.A., upon a general scheme of requirements prepared by the Chief Officer of the Brigade, Major C. C. B. Morris, M.C., 

with the assistance of the Deputy Chief Officer, Commander A. N. G. Firebrace, R.N. (retired). 

We beg to express to Your Majesty our deep gratification at Your active interest in the welfare of the Brigade and of the 

dependants of those who lay down their lives on duty. We desire to tender to Her Majesty The Queen most sincere thanks for Her 

gracious presence at this important London ceremony. We pray that Your Majesty may long be spared to reign, and that the 

blessing of good health may be enjoyed by Your Majesty, by Her Majesty The Queen and by all the members of the Royal 

family.” SNELL, Chairman of the Council. Countersigned, G. H. GATER, Clerk of the Council. 21st July, 1937. 

27

To which Address His Majesty was pleased To return the following Gracious Answer:— 

“I thank you on behalf of The Queen and Myself for your loyal and dutiful Address. It is nearly fifteen years since I was present 

when My Father opened the County Hall, and it is a great satisfaction to Me that at the beginning of My Reign I should open the 

new Headquarters of the London Fire Brigade. The protection of the people of My Capital from the dangers of fire is indeed an 

anxious task. All of us who live in London know how much we owe to the untiring vigilance, efficiency, and devotion to duty, of 

the Officers and men of the Brigade. In these new Headquarters the London County Council, mindful of its great and constant 

responsibility, has provided the most modern equipment for fire fighting. It has also made available the facilities needed for the 

adequate training of those who succeed to the traditions of a century of devoted service. 

I congratulate the Council upon the completion of this fine building, so skillfully designed by their Officers, and I feel sure that the 

Brigade will make the fullest use of all that it offers. I welcome this opportunity of paying My tribute to the Officers and men of 

the London Fire Brigade, and it gives Me much pleasure to declare open their new Headquarters”. 




Brigades whose names appear below:—(Supplement to the L/G. 34469, 1 st. January 1938, pp. 20.) 

FOR GALLANTRY 

Fire Brigade: Scotland. 

James EVANS, Fireman, Edinburgh City Fire Brigade. (For further details see the appendix at the end of this listing.) 



Aylmer Newton George FIREBRACE (Commander, R.N., retd.), Deputy Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

William Charles WARREN, Senior Superintendent, London Fire Brigade. 

Tom BREAKS, Superintendent, Sheffield City Police Force and Chief Officer of the Fire Brigade. 

Hedley PETERS, O.B.E. J.P. Honorary Chief Officer, Sittingbourne and Milton Fire Brigade. 

Not a Fire Brigade award but a tragedy which reminds us of the constant need to eliminate risk and, should the worst happen, 

ensure that equipment and resources are quickly available to deal with such circumstances. Perhaps, Health and Safety isn‘t a 

bad thing after all! 

Whitehall, November 24, 1938. 

His Majesty The KING has been graciously pleased to award the Edward Medal to the late John Henry Mears in recognition 

of his gallantry in the following circumstances:—(L/G. 34579, 13 th December 1938, pp. 7912.) 

On Monday, July 25th, 1938, two workmen employed on the construction of a sewer in Albion Street, Miles Platting, Manchester, 

discovered that the air at the bottom of the 50 foot shaft was bad. The bad air was removed partly by the primitive expedient of 

lowering and raising a skip with lighted waste and partly by using an air compressor. 

The same thing happened on the following day (Tuesday) but not on the Wednesday. On Thursday, July. 28th, W. Bellingham, a 

tunnel miner, partly descended the shaft and found by candle test that the air was foul again. He returned to the surface and 

warned Mears and J. R. Byrnes who were trying in vain to get the air compressor working. Byrnes, followed by P. Murphy the 

foreman (who said he would go down and see how bad the gas was) started to descend the shaft by the ladder. On reaching the 

bottom Byrnes was seen to step off the ladder, but shortly afterwards collapsed. Meantime Murphy, presumably becoming aware 

of the foul air, but ignorant of Byrnes' collapse, had partly reclimbed the ladder but, warned of Byrnes' plight by shouts from the 

workmen at the top of the shaft he turned back, and on, reaching the shaft bottom collapsed in turn while trying to raise Byrnes. 

There were no life-lines, ropes, safety belts or breathing apparatus available. Knowing this Mears tied a wet handkerchief over his 

mouth, got into a skip and was lowered to the bottom, although he was warned that the handkerchief was useless against sewer 

gas. At the bottom he got out of the skip, tried to raise Murphy but put him down again, then got back into the skip and. signalled 

to be raised. Unfortunately as the skip was being steadied prior to being raised Mears fell out of it. Nearly half an hour later the 

Fire Brigade arrived and extricated the three men, all of whom were dead. 




Brigades whose names appear below:—(Supplement to the L/G. 3458, 2 nd. January 1939.) 

Fire Brigade: England and Wales 


George RICHARDSON, Chief Officer, Jarrow Borough Fire Brigade. 

Whitehall, June 8, 1939. 

His Majesty The KING has been graciously pleased to award the King's Police Medal for Distinguished Service to the 

undermentioned Officers:—(Supplement to the L/G 34633, 8 th June 1939, pp. 3873.) 

Fire Brigade: England and Wales. 

Charles James WRIGHT, Senior Superintendent, London Fire Brigade. 

28


The Distinguished Service Medal. (Second Supplement to the L/G. 34925, 16 th August 1940, pp. 5063). 

Sub-Officer Aubrey John MAY, London Fire Brigade, Fire Float, „Massey Shaw‟. 

Mention in Despatches. (Second Supplement to the L/G 34925, 16 th August 1940, pp 5073.) 

Fireman Henry Albert William RAY, Auxiliary Fire Service, London Fire Brigade Fire Float, „Massey Shaw‟. (Almost certainly, 

for services when Massey Shaw deployed to the beaches of Dunkirk.) 

Fireman Edmund Gordon WRIGHT, Auxiliary Fire Service, London Fire Brigade Fire Float, „Massey Shaw‟. 

St. James's Palace, S.W.I, 

30th September, 1940. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the following awards of the George Medal and for the publication in 

the London Gazette of the names of units and individuals shown below as having received an expression of Commendation for 

their good services. 

Awarded The George Medal. (Second Supplement to the L/G 34956, 30 th September 1940, pp. 5768.) 

Ernest Herbert HARMER, Executive Chief Officer. Dover Fire Brigade. 

Cyril William Arthur BROWN, Second Officer. Dover Fire Brigade. 

Alexander Edmund CAMBELL, Section Officer, Dover Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Commended. (Almost certainly, the awards of the above George Medals and the following Commendations refer to actions at the 

same incident. The citation is included below. Second Supplement to the L/G. 34956, 30 th September 1940, pp. 5768.) 

Dover Fire Brigade. 

Dover Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Harold Thomas HOOKINGS, Station Officer, Dover Fire Brigade. 

Ernest Alfred FOORD, Fireman, Dover Fire Brigade. 

Edward Jesse GORE, Fireman, Dover Fire Brigade. 

Arthur Thomas CUNNINGHAM, Auxiliary Fireman. Dover Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Lionel Rupert HUDSMITH, Auxiliary Fireman. Dover Auxiliary Fire Service. 

John McDERMONT, Auxiliary Fireman. Dover Auxiliary Fire Service. 

In a recent large scale attack by enemy bombers on Dover Harbour, fires were started in ships and oil stores. Air raids continued 

throughout the day. During the attacks all members of the Dover Fire Brigade and Auxiliary Fire Service engaged at the fires did 

excellent work in difficult and dangerous circumstances and the fires were eventually extinguished. The individuals named above 

volunteered to return to a blazing ship containing explosives, in which they fought fires while enemy aircraft were still in the 

neighbourhood 

Awarded The George Medal. (Second Supplement to the L/G. 34956, 27 th September 1940, pp. 5768.) 

George Archibald HOWE, Manager, Shell-Mex and B.P. Ltd. 

William SIGWORTH, Manager, Anglo-American Oil Company Ltd. 

George Samuel SEWELL, Engineer, Shell-Mex and B.P. Ltd. 

Jack OWEN, Fireman, Kingston-upon-Hull Fire Brigade. 

Clifford TURNER, Leading Fireman, Kingston-upon-Hull Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Commended. 

Those named below have been brought to notice for good services in connection with Civil Defence. -(Second Supplement to 

the L/G. 34956, 27 th September 1940, pp. 5768). 

Thomas Gant, Handyman, Shell-Mex and B.P. Ltd. 

During a recent air raid bombs were dropped on an oil depot, petrol tanks being pierced in several places, causing serious fires. 

Mr. Howe showed outstanding leadership and organization in fighting the fires and conspicuous bravery in entering the tank 

compound, which contained burning spirit, to open the valves so that the stock could be transferred. He was assisted by Mr. 

Sigsworth who also entered the tank compound and who was untiring in his efforts to extinguish the flames. Mr. Sewell led a 

party of men into the tank compound and was also continually on the tank roof whilst the gas inside was burning, endeavouring to 

extinguish the flames by playing foam over the tank top and placing sandbags over the roof curb. Fireman Owen volunteered to 

operate a hose on the top of an almost red hot tank after wading through petrol and water to a depth of about four feet. His clothes 

were thus soaked with petrol and might have caught alight at any moment. Leading Fireman Turner volunteered to assist Mr. 

Howe in fixing hose on a tank-top surrounded by flames from burning petrol. Their clothes were thus soaked with petrol and 

might have caught alight at any moment. Handyman Gant showed considerable resource and at great personal risk endeavoured to 

extinguish the flames. 

Commendations.Those named below have been brought to notice for good services in connection with Civil Defence. (Second 

Supplement to the L/G. 34956, 27 th. September 1940, pp.5769.) 

W. H. WOODS, Chief Officer, Clacton Fire Brigade. 

Commendations. 

Those named below have been brought to notice for good services in connection with Civil Defence. (L/G. 34960, 4 th October 

1940, pp. 5828.) 

William Howard RADFORD, Air Raid Precautions Incident Officer. 

29

Ernest BEAUMONT, Air Raid Warden. 

John Stanley BUXTON,Leading Fireman. Shardlow, Derby, Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Leonard TILL, Fireman. Shardlow, Derby, Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Ernest Cainey WILLIAMS, Fireman. Shardlow, Derby, Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Ronald KIRKMAN, Fireman. Shardlow, Derby, Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Reginald KIRKMAN, Fireman. Shardlow, Derby, Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Cyril WEBSTER, Fireman. Shardlow, Derby, Auxiliary Fire Service. 

James Walter PEGG, Fireman. Shardlow, Derby, Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Thomas Leslie WILD, Fireman. Shardlow, Derby, Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 34976, 22 nd. October 1940, pp. 6127.) 

Robert John KNIGHT, Auxiliary Fireman, Birmingham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

William Victor PHILPOTT, Fire Sergeant, Bristol Fire Brigade. 

Ernest SMITH, Fire Sergeant, Bristol Fire Brigade. 

Bertram Charles Ernest ARKELL, Fireman. Bristol Fire Brigade. 

Walter BRYANT, Fireman, Bristol Fire Brigade. 

Albert Victor THOMAS, Fireman, Bristol Fire Brigade. 

Maurice Charles DAY, Patrol Officer, Bristol Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Frederick Charles REVELLE, Patrol Officer, Bristol Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Lewis Jack WATTS, Auxiliary Fireman, Bristol Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Daniel James COLLINS, Fire Sergeant, Cardiff Fire Brigade. 

William BROWN, Sub-Officer, Cardiff Auxiliary Fire Seryice. 

Norman GROOM, Leading Fireman, Cardiff Auxiliary Fire Seryice. 

Matthew ACORNLEY, Chief Officer, Milford Haven Fire Brigade. 

Awarded, the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for Meritorious Service:—(L/G. 

34976, 22 nd. October 1940, pp. 6128.) 

.Maurice Clarke SADLER, Patrol Officer, Bristol Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Alfred Richard Bridgeley HART, Newport Fire Brigade. 

The awards to the above-mentioned firemen and auxiliary firemen belonging to various fire brigades are in recognition of the 

gallant conduct shown by them when attending a very serious fire. The fire in question was started by hostile air attack and burnt 

for a considerable period. While it was being fought, there were further air raids, both by day and by night, the firemen being 

subjected to machine-gunning as well as bombing. 


Those named below have been brought to notice for gallantry or good service in connection with Civil Defence. (Supplement to 

the L/G. 34976, 22 nd October 1940, pp. 6128.) 

Frank James COLLIER, Auxiliary Fireman, Derby Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Thomas FITZGERALD. Sub-Officer, Cardiff Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Joseph Andrew GERMAIN, Sergeant, Cardiff City Police Fire Brigade. 

Arthur MORRIS, Chief Officer, Pembroke Borough Fire Brigade. 

Ernest Royal VODDEN, Divisional Officer, Swansea Auxiliary Fire Service. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the undermentioned appointment to the Fourth Class of the Most 

Excellent Order of the British Empire, for the following awards, and for the publication in the London Gazette of the names of 

individuals shown below as having received an expression of Commendation for their good services. (Supplement to the L/G 

34994. of 15 th November 1940, pp. 6609.) 

To be an Additional Officer of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: —(Supplement to the L/G 

34994. of 15 th November 1940, pp. 6609.) 

Tom BREAKS, Deputy Chief Inspector, Fire Brigades Division, Home Office. 

Mr. Breaks was in charge of the operations for the extinction of a large fire which was caused by enemy air action and which 

burned for a considerable time. During this period he had necessarily to expose himself to great danger on many occasions. His 

powers of organisation and the manner in which he handled men under his command were quite outstanding. Mr. Breaks 

organised the dispositions of the fire attack including the arrangements for relaying water from a distance, on more than one 

occasion under bombing and machine-gun fire from the enemy. At the same time he organized billeting, feeding and medical 

attention for the personnel engaged in an area where facilities for these purposes were very limited. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to the L/G 34994, 15 th November 1940, pp. 6609) 

Thomas BRUCE, Fire Brigade Superintendent. (later in the war Assistant Fire Force Commander, No. 1 Region N.F.S.) 

When an enemy bombing aeroplane crashed, destroying, a shop and dwelling houses and badly damaging two other properties, 

petrol and oil from the bomber were scattered over a wide area setting fire to the buildings. Three persons were also trapped in a 

wrecked surface shelter which was covered with debris from the demolished house. The shelter itself was on fire and rescue 

operations were greatly hampered by the flames and heat given off from the burning petrol. 

30

In addition, concentrations of petrol vapour were exploding continuously. Superintendent T. Bruce at once called for volunteers to 

assist himself and Fire Sergeant Patterson in attempting the rescue of the persons trapped in the shelter. Chief Inspector 

Middlemist, Detectives G. Cook and A. Buddies and P.C. A. Simpson immediately volunteered and rendered valuable assistance 

in moving heavy concrete slabs and other debris from the shelter, their efforts resulting in the rescue of three people from the 

wreckage. During the rescue operations it was found necessary to play a jet of water on the feet of the trapped persons and the 

officers engaged in the work, as their clothing was being burnt by blazing petrol. 

The officers concerned displayed exceptional courage and showed complete disregard of the possibility that further bombs may 

have been in the fallen plane and might have exploded at any time during the operations. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to the L/G 34994, 15 th November 1940, pp. 6610.) 

Joseph James HARPER, Fire Brigade Station Officer. 

Two members of a Bomb Disposal Section were trapped in a crater while attempting to dig out an unexploded bomb. The Fire 

Brigade special service tender was immediately despatched, and upon arrival it was found that an opening approximately 6 ft. 6 in. 

by 18 ft. deep had been dug out, showing a circular hole at the bottom about 18 ins. in diameter. The two men had been lowered 

through this opening, and had been immediately overcome by the gas in the cavity below, although they were wearing general 

service respirators. Station Officer Harper, wearing a "Salvus" breathing apparatus, was immediately lowered through the 

opening, although he was informed that the bomb had not yet exploded. He located the men, and fastened a rope round them; they 

were then hauled to the surface by other members of the Brigade. 

Commendations. Those named below have been brought to notice for gallantry or good service in connection with Civil 

Defence. (Supplement to the L/G 34994, 15 th November 1940, pp. 6613.) 

Robert H. PATTERSON, Fire Brigade Sergeant, Borough Fire Brigade, Sunderland. 

To be an Additional Member of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. (Supplement to the L/G 

35006, 3 rd December 1940, pp. 6909.) 

Charles Philip McDUELL, Fire Brigade Superintendent. (Probably London F.B but was this witheld for secuity reasons?) 

Several serious fires were caused by enemy action on oil depots; wharves and factories, London. At one time there were as many 

as eight distinct fires burning at once. Superintendent McDuell attended throughout both nights. He showed conspicuous ability 

and leadership, particularly in organizing water supplies. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to the L/G 35006, 3 rd. December 1940, pp. 6910.) (Strangely, published as London.) 

William Thomas BEESON, Officer in Charge, Works Fire Brigade. 

Lewis Philip FISHER, Fireman, Works Fire Brigade. 

On the occasion of an Air Raid on a Factory a high explosive bomb struck a hangar where inflammables were stored. Fire broke 

out and Beeson got his brigade to work immediately. He at once perceived that the chief danger lay in a stock of metallic sodium 

which was burning and which precluded the use of water. As rain had rendered the supply of sand wet, he used a nearby load of 

dry cement to blanket the burning metal. The situation was complicated by burning liquid inflammables and clouds of fumes from 

a ton of chemical scattered by the bomb. Moreover, the explosion had thrown two large 500 lb. cylinders of compressed ammonia 

gas into the seat of the fire, thus constituting a dangerous explosion risk. One of these cylinders did in fact explode and flung 

burning sodium metal in all directions, besides producing a temporary gas attack. Mr. Beeson was burnt about the face but was 

saved from further serious injury by the prompt and energetic action of Fireman L. Fisher. 

Fisher rendered invaluable assistance. Without counting the risk to himself he was foremost among the men in tackling the fire 

under instructions from Beeson. When the burning sodium metal and liquid inflammables caused the explosion of the cylinder of 

ammonia Fisher found that several men had been injured. He got them all single-handed to the nearest underground shelter, whilst 

the First Aid Party were summoned, and then assisted in their removal. He immediately returned to his fire-fighting duty and 

helped very materially in bringing the fire under final control. His fearlessness, cheerfulness and devotion to duty were beyond 

praise. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to the L/G 35006, 3 rd. December 1940, pp. 6910.) 

Percy George GARON, M.C. Fire Brigade Chief Officer. 

Sydney Arthur WRIGHT, Section Officer, Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Several serious fires were caused by enemy action on oil depots, wharves and factories. The fire was localised to two oil tanks 

which were blazing furiously. Near these were a number of full tanks, not on fire, which were protected by being kept cool with 

water. One tank sprang a leak and allowed a large quantity of oil to escape. This formed a pool of oil and water round the tank 

about 18 ins. deep. Another tank which was blazing furiously, burst near the top and poured out blazing oil. The only way to 

check this rush of fire was to turn a drencher branchpipe into, the blazing pool. The officer in charge at this point gave orders for a 

drencher branchpipe to be carried over and Wright immediately dashed forward and faced the blazing oil. Although the fire was 

raging within two feet of him, he was not deterred from persisting in his efforts to get a branch free from the branch holder to 

which it was securely tied, and turn it over into the pond round the tank so driving the fire back. If this had not been successfully 

carried out, some five additional oil tanks, of a total capacity of about 20,000 tons of oil, would have become involved. 

As District Officer Mr. Garon was, when present, in general charge of the operations for the extinction of the fires. He displayed 

conspicuous bravery and leadership which inspired the greatest confidence in all the officers and men present. His action at more 

than one point definitely prevented the fires from involving other premises and he handled the various serious situations 

excellently throughout a very long and strenuous time. 

31

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to the L/G 35006, 3 rd December 1940, pp. 6910.) 

Cyril Alfred REEVES, Auxiliary Fireman, Auxiliary Fire Service. 

On the occasion of the serious fires which were caused by enemy action on oil depots, wharves and factories, Reeves entered a 

retort house. Petrol was flooded on the floor and a "flashback" occurred, igniting the petrol vapour. Another auxiliary fireman 

became entangled in a chain and was in imminent danger of being burned to death. Reeves remained to assist in releasing the 

trapped man. He was surrounded by flames and showed great bravery in making the attempt to release his comrade. 

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Order of the British Empire for Meritorious Service. (Supplement to the L/G. 

35006, 3 rd December 1940, pp. 6911). 

Winifred Mary EUSTACE, Woman Auxiliary, Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Millicent PENNINGTON, Section Officer, Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During the several serious fires which were caused by enemy action on oil depots, wharves and factories, Section Officer 

Pennington and Woman Auxiliary Eustace attended with the canteen van for twelve hours each night; and carried out their work 

under heavy bombardment with outstanding coolness, thus exercising an extremely good effect on all hands during their brief rest 

period. The canteen van in which they were working was hit by splinters. 


Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in connection with Civil Defence. (Supplement to the L/G. 

35006, 3 rd December 1940, pp. 6911.) 

Albert Edward CROSS, Fireman, Works A.R.P. Services, Woolwich. 

Thomas FORROW (deceased), Station Officer, Fire Brigade. (awarded the O.B.E. in 1920 for actions during a W.W.I air raid.) 

Awarded the George Medal. (Second Supplement to the L/G. 35012, 13 th December 1940, pp. 7018.) 

Henry Bernard NEALE, Fireman, Auxiliary Fire Service. (Probably from one of the Thanet brigades.) 

During operations following an enemy air attack it became necessary to stop up a large leak that had appeared in the top of a tank 

which had been on fire. The flames had been extinguished but the oil pouring out of the tank was quite likely to catch fire again. 

Neale, enlisting the aid of two firemen from another unit, secured a thirty-foot extension ladder and a plank. He then climbed the 

iron ladder that was secured to the side of the tank and, with help, dragged the extension ladder up to the top. He was joined by 

the Senior Officer and the Engineer, the ladder was extended to its full length and dropped over the other side of the tank. Neale 

then opened a lid on the top of the tank to ascertain the depth of the oil, which was found to be roughly eight feet from the top. 

The Senior Officer then went down the ladder and plugged the hole with soft wood. The whole of this operation from start to 

finish was a very risky undertaking. Apart from fires in the vicinity and the likelihood of certain gases being given off in the tank, 

one slip on the top would no doubt have been fatal. 

Neale also played a great part in the saving of another tank. This tank had a hole in it about four feet above the base and burning 

oil was pouring from it. The crew played two very strong jets at the leak, driving the flames away. Two more cross jets were used 

to drive away the burning oil at the base of the tank, making a passage between the tank and the fire. Neale and another fireman 

bridged the gap between the tank and the bank with a ladder and proceeded to plug the hole with wood. While this operation was 

in progress, two more jets were played above the men, making a curtain of water and at the same time cooling the tanks. If, at any 

time, the two cross jets had failed to beat back the burning oil, the two men would certainly have been burned, perhaps with 

serious consequences. The tank was saved. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Second Supplement to the L/G. 35012, 13 th December 1940, pp. 7019.) 

Albert Edward Parsons TWYMAN, Chief Officer, Margate Fire Brigade. 

Frederick Walter WATSON, Driver/Fireman, Margate Fire Brigade. 

Serious fires were caused when a series of bombing and machine-gun attacks took place. (On Manston Airfield). Fire Brigades 

and Auxiliary Fire Services were called out, and worked under most dangerous conditions, saving much valuable equipment and 

extinguishing the fires before nightfall. Two men having entered a burning building with breathing apparatus, Chief Officer 

Twyman led others (not so equipped) by crawling into the building and forming a chain whereby material was passed out and the 

whole stock saved. 

On another occasion Oil Stores were fired and the only water supply was from an underground tank within five feet of which a 

delayed action bomb had fallen. None the less this source of supply was used and, although fully realising the danger, Watson, the 

Pump Engineer, remained working within a few feet of the unexploded bomb whilst the fires were tackled. While this was being 

done a further bombing attack developed, a heavy H.E. bomb exploding within 20 feet of the place where the men had taken 

cover. 

Despite shock the men continued work and carried on during a later machine-gun attack, eventually extinguishing the fires before 

dark. Chief Officer Twyman showed great qualities of leadership and courage, setting a fine example to the men under him who, 

with him, fulfilled their important and dangerous task. Fireman Watson by his courage and devotion to duty enabled the only 

water supply to be utilised. (Reported in the Isle of Thanet Gazette that Twyman and Watson had attended Buckingham Palace 

‗recently‘(security considerations prevented the actual date being mentioned) to receive their George Medals from the King. Aux. 

Fm. Moore and Mr.A..J. Foreman, a London Fireman living in the Thanet area, also attended). 

COMMENDATIONS. (Second Supplement to the L/G. 35012, 13 th December 1940, pp. 7020/1.) 

Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in connection with Civil Defence: — 

Cecil DIPLOCK, Section Officer, Maidstone Auxiliary Fire Service. For his actions when a war-time fire station in Hope St., 

Maidstone was destroyed by a bomb on 27 July 1940. A man living near-by was killed and Diplock was injured. 

32

Herbert Reginald EVANS, Leading Fireman, Margate Auxiliary Fire Service. For his actions when a aerodrome (Manston) was 

bombed. The armoury was hit and Evans, Harrison, Wicks, with others, formed a chain and recovered the entire stock. 

Robert GLENNON, Auxiliary Fireman, Northampton Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Arthur Thomas HARRISON, Fireman, Margate Fire Brigade. For his actions when a aerodrome (R.A.F. Manston) was bombed. 

The armoury was hit and Evans, Harrison, Wicks, with others, formed a chain and recovered the entire stock. 

Gabriel George NYE, Foreman, Margate Fire Brigade. During a raid on Manston Airport, Nye and Setterfield operated a pump 

close to an unexploded bomb and despite machine gun attacks. 

Donald George SETTERFIELD, Fireman, Margate Fire Brigade. During a raid on Manston Airport, Nye and Setterfield 

operated a pump close to an unexploded bomb and despite machine gun attacks. 

Walter Keith Shirley SMITH, Patrol Officer, Northampton Auxiliary Fire Brigade. 

John VENABLES, A.F.S. Messenger, Coventry. 

Albert George WATSON, Superintendent, Margate Fire Brigade. For his actions when a aerodrome (R.A.F. Manston) was 

bombed. The armoury was hit and Evans, Harrison, Wicks, with others, formed a chain and recovered the entire stock 

Michael John WICKS, Fireman, Margate Fire Brigade. During a raid on Manston Airport, Nye and Setterfield operated a pump 

close to an unexploded bomb and despite machine gun attacks. 



His Majesty The KING has been graciously pleased to award the King's Police and Fire Services Medal to the Officers of 

Police and Fire Brigades whose names appear below: — (Supplement to the L/G. 35029, 1 st. January 1941, pp. 42.) 



Henry Charles DENYER, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Albert James ISERN, Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 



Frederick William DELVE, Chief Officer, Croydon Fire Brigade. 

Henry JOHNSON, Chief Officer, West Ham Fire Brigade. 

George Alfred WILLIAMS, Principal Fire Officer, Dorking and Horley Rural District. 

Leonard Charles St. Leger YEEND, Chief Officer of the Sodbury Fire Brigade and Commandant of the Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Edward Frederick HAYWARD, Chief Officer, Southampton Fire Brigade. 

Edward Thomas HAYWARD, Second Officer, Southampton Fire Brigade. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the undermentioned appointment to the Fifth Class of the Most 

Excellent Order of the British Empire, for the following awards of the George Medal and of the Medal of the said Most 

Excellent Order, for Meritorious Service, and for the publication in the London Gazette of the names of the persons specially 

shown below as having received an expression of Commendation for their brave conduct in Civil Defence. — (Supplement to 

the L/G 35029, 1 st. January 1941. pp. 12.) 

C.B.E. 

To be Additional Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: 

Commander Aylmer Newton George FIREBRACE, R.N. (Retired). Chief Officer of the London Fire Brigade. 

O.B.E. 

To be Additional Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: — (Supplement to the L/G 35029, 1 st. January 

1941. pp. 13). 

Charles BIRCH, Esq., Chief Officer of the Brighton Fire Brigade. 

John DOWNS, Esq., M.C., Commandant of the Bradford Auxiliary Fire Service. His citations reads; 

Lt. John Downs, R.F.A.(Spec.Res.), attached 460th. Bty. R.F.A.(15th Bde. R.H.A.). 

He was commanding a section of guns ordered up to support the infantry at close range on September 29th, 1918, near Kruiseecke. 

After one gun had been brought into action the enemy put down a heavy barrage, and he passed through this barrage three times in 

order to bring up the remaining gun and ammunition. When obliged to withdraw his guns, he did so successfully after three 

attempts, the road having been broken by shell fire. He showed great coolness and courage throughout. (Second Supp. To the L/G 

37480, 29 th July 1919, pp. 9729.) 

Arthur Hedley JOHNSTONE, Esq., Chief Officer of the Enfield Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be an Additional Member of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: — 

Councillor William Thomas CALDERWOOD, M.C., Commandant of the Newcastle Auxiliary Fire Service. (Supplement to the 

L/G 35029, 1 st. January 1941. pp. 13.) 

Frank BITTEN, Esq., Superintendent, London Fire Brigade. (Supplement to L/G 35029, 1 st January 1941. pp. 14.) 

Ronald William GREENE, Esq., District Officer, (London Fire Service). (Supplement to the L/G 35029, 14 th January 1941. pp. 

15.) 

Henry Richard OWEN, Esq., Chief Officer, Liverpool Fire Brigade. (Supplement to L/G 35029, 1 st January 1941. pp. 15.) 

33

Sidney Albert PHILLIPS, Chief Officer, Eastbourne Fire Brigade. 

Alexander TURNBULL, Esq.,. Deputy Commandant, Dunbartonshire Auxiliary Fire Service. (Supplement to L/G 35029, 1 st. 

January 1941. pp. 16.) 

Alfred Leslie WESTCOMBE, Esq., Secretary of the City of Birmingham Fire Department. (Supplement to the L/G 35029, 1 st 

January 1941. pp. 16.) 

Francis WINTERINGHAM, Esq., Air Raid Precautions Controller and Chief Officer of the Fire Brigade, Leicester. (Supplement 

to the L/G 35029, 1 st January 1941. pp, 16.) 

Awarded the George Medal: —(Second Supplement to the L/G 35030. 3 rd January 1940, pp. 45.) 

George COLLIER, Chief Fire Officer, Works Fire Brigade, Coventry. 

Chief Officer Collier throughout showed great zeal and gallantry in directing the Works Fire Brigade when the city was subjected 

to a heavy air raid. At one time when endeavouring to prevent flames from spreading he climbed to the top of the building. The 

building collapsed, and although hurt by his fall, he carried on his duties. Later, he continued to put out incendiary bombs 

although on three occasions H.E. bombs actually exploded in the building in which he was working. He was injured in the back 

by debris from one of them, but although in considerable pain he continued to direct his Second and Third Officers. It was not 

until the end of the raid that he would permit himself to be taken to the Surgery and then on to the Hospital. 

In previous raids Chief Officer Collier has also shown great fearlessness and zeal, and he and his Brigade have dealt with several 

fires with great efficiency. 

Awarded the George Medal: —(Second Supplement to the L/G. 35030, 3 rd. January 1941, pp. 46. ) 

Arthur James FOREMAN, Fire Brigade Officer. (a more personal report of the actions of this London Fire Brigade officer can 

be found in the Isle of Thanet Gazette, January 10 th 1941.) 

Harry TAYLOR, Fireman. 

Sidney Eric FRIEND, Factory Press Operator. 

During an air raid a bomb struck one of two trucks loaded with cordite standing outside a 60-ton Cordite Magazine. The truck 

immediately caught fire. The Fire Brigade at once turned out and attacked the fire from close range. Both trucks were blazing 

furiously and the flames spread to the Magazine through the doorway, the door having been wrenched off by the explosion. 

Regardless of personal danger the firemen, led by the Fire Brigade Officer, rapidly got the trucks under control and then entered 

the Magazine. One of the cordite boxes had already ignited and the exposed sides of many others were scorched. They 

extinguished this fire with hand appliances and then returned to and finally extinguished the burning trucks. As one of these had 

been derailed, it was necessary to remove the unburnt cordite from the truck. 

But for the quick and efficient maner in which the Fire Brigade tackled the fire regardless of great personal risk, there is no doubt 

that the Magazine and contents would have been a complete loss. 

Awarded the George Medal: —(Second Supplement to the L/G. 35030, 3 rd. January 1941, pp. 46/7). 

Edward Henry James MOORE, Auxiliary Fireman, Ramsgate A.F.S. 

Fireman Moore and Auxiliary Fireman Herbert J. Wells were proceeding to report to their station, whilst bombs were falling, 

when a bomb exploded near them. Wells sustained a very severe laceration of the abdomen from a bomb splinter and was gravely 

injured. Fireman Moore received two splinter wounds in the right thigh and suffered from shock. The enemy then machinegunned 

the two firemen and Moore received three bullets in the left arm, one making a hole through the arm whilst another 

severed an artery. A further bullet injured his left wrist. Although bleeding profusely from the severed artery, Fireman Moore 

dragged his comrade to a more protected spot and then tried to carry him to a First Aid Post. 

Wells was a very big man and Moore, being much smaller, found the task impossible. Moore succeeded, as quickly as his injuries 

and condition permitted, in staggering to a First Aid dressing station 350 yards away to report the condition of his comrade, and an 

ambulance was at once despatched. After first aid treatment had been applied Wells was at once conveyed to hospital, where he 

died three days later. Fireman Moore was in hospital for three weeks. 

Awarded the George Medal: —(Second Supplement to the L/G. 35030, 3 rd January 1941, pp. 47). 

Leonard George POTTER, Works Chief Fire and A.R.P. Officer. 

A delayed action bomb fell on the factory together with two H.Es. Although he was told there was a chance of the bomb exploding 

at any moment, Potter called for volunteers and directed the pumping out of water from the hole in which it was lodged. For 

several hours he led his men in building a sandbag wall round the hole to reduce the effect of the explosion had the bomb gone off. 

On another occasion he showed courage and devotion to duty in his handling of a fire caused by an oil bomb which, had he not 

directed the Fire Brigade efficiently, may have spread to a much larger section of the Works and thus have more seriously held up 

production of urgent war supplies. 

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: — (Second Supplement to the L/G. 

35030, 3 rd January 1941, pp. 47). 

Leonard A. DIVALL, Member of Works Fire Service, Harlesden. 

During an air raid incendiary bombs set fire to a factory. Soon afterwards more bombs were dropped, setting fire to another 

building, part of which backs on to the factory. Mr. Divall showed much personal bravery. By almost super-human efforts he, 

and the rest of the men in the fire service under his leadership, were able to save the factory from any serious damage by fire. 

On another occasion, 14 incendiary bombs came through the roofs of various of the buildings during the night, and under his 

leadership again, these were all put out without doing anything but scorch damage. Divall worked hard regardless of dangers from 

34

ombs and darkness. In spite of the fact that he had sprained his ankle, he refused to leave in order to have it treated, although he 

was in considerable pain. 

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: — (Second Supplement to the L/G. 

35030, 3 rd January 1941, pp. 48.) 

Walter TAYLOR, Voluntary Works Fireman, Birmingham:— (Second Supplement to the L/G. 35030, 3 rd January 1941, pp. 48). 

When a fire was started by enemy attack at some works, Fireman Taylor showed great courage in going into a burning building, 

part of which had fallen in, to attack the heart of a fire which threatened to destroy the works. He was not at the time on duty with 

the A.F.S. or at the works. His brave action saved a section of the building. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Second Supplement to the L/G. 35030, 3 rd January 1941, pp. 48/49). 


Leonard Evelyn LOWINGS, Deputy Commandant, Broadstairs and St. Peters A.F.S. 

Frederick WAIN, Chief Officer, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Second Supplement to the L/G. 35016, 17 th January 1941, pp. 7095). 


William VARCOE, Patrol Officer, Coulsdon and Purley Auxiliary Fire Service. 

To be an Additional Member of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: — (Supplement to the L/G 

35043, 17 th January 1941, pp. 330.) 

Sidney Albert PHILLIPS, Chief Officer, Eastbourne Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to L/G 35043, 17 th January 1941. pp. 330.) 

Alfred Ernest BLACKMER. Members of Rescue Party, (not members of the Fire Service but obviously working very closely 

with C.F.O. Phillips.) 

Edwin Humphrey MAY. 

Francis STEVENS. 

Ernest Lawson TURNEY. 

As a result of a raid by enemy aircraft three houses were completely demolished and several persons were trapped under the 

wreckage. The efforts of the Fire Brigade were a great contributing factor to the ultimate release of five of the persons trapped. 

Chief Officer Phillips acted with much energy and resource, making many excursions under the wreckage, directing operations 

and generally encouraging his men. Rescue and other Services were immediately in action at the scene but some time later an 

unexploded H.E. bomb was discovered 200 feet away. In consequence volunteers were called for, Blackmer, May, Stevens and 

Turney were among those to volunteer. 

Blackmer, Stevens and Turney were concerned in the work of penetrating the wall of a cellar, through a matchboard refrigerator 

lined with cork and then through another 12 inch concrete wall. This work was carried out in dangerous conditions, in a very 

confined space with the constant peril of heavy falling debris. Through these efforts, three of the persons trapped were rescued. 

May laboured unceasingly throughout the night in a most gallant manner. 

Blackmer and Turney were overcome with the cold and the effects of escaping gas and water in the cellar and had to be taken to 

the Depot. Some time later, however, they returned to work and gave strenuous aid to the task of releasing a young girl who was 

pinned down by timber and debris, a weight which six jacks had failed to move. After heavy toil, the timber was at last lifted. 

The whole of this courageous action was carried out in appalling conditions. In their efforts, which greatly contributed to the 

ultimate rescue of five of the seven trapped persons, these men laboured in an atmosphere rendered foul by escaping gas, in a 

cellar filling with water. Further they worked for a great part of the period with the knowledge that there was a delayed-action 

bomb only 200 feet away. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to L/G 35043, 17 th January 1941. pp. 332.) 

Arthur Leslie SWANSBOROUGH, Patrol Officer, Southend-on-Sea Fire Brigade. 

Following an enemy air attack a number of petrol tanks caught fire and blazed furiously. One tank blew up and P/O 

Swansborough immediately gave orders for the firemen to abandon their hoses and run. One fireman, in scrambling over oil pipes 

fell into a crater containing oil and water and, owing to the deep and slippery nature of the sides, it was impossible for him to get 

out unaided. P/O Swansborough immediately turned back and rescued the man from the crater which, a few seconds later, was a 

mass of flames from the burning petrol, the heat being so intense that both men received burns on the neck and hands. P/O 

Swansborough's courageous action undoubtedly saved the life of the fireman. 

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order, of the British Empire, for Meritorious Service:— 

(Supplement to L/G 35043, 17 th January 1941. pp. 334.) 

George Wallis FRY, Second Officer, Folkestone Fire Brigade. 

Ernest Alfred WARREN, Carpenter, Folkestone. 

After an air raid on Folkestone, Second Officer Fry turned out with a tender and crew to some cottages which had been 

demolished by an H.E. bomb. On arrival he was told that a small girl had been trapped under debris. Although it was not part of 

his duty as a Fire Officer, he crawled into a small space only big enough for him to kneel in and, with the help of Warren, raised 

the debris by means of motor jacks until both were able to crawl underneath. Moving the rubble with their bare hands and, in spite 

of the danger from falling debris, they eventually came upon the head and shoulders of a child and by their gallantry under 

dangerous conditions, succeeded in rescuing her alive and without serious injury. 

35



Alfred William HUMBLE, Sergeant, Liverpool Fire Brigade. 

A serious fire, due to enemy action, broke out at some storehouses in Liverpool. In spite of the fact, however, that continuous dust 

explosions were taking place and that the fire appeared to have a hold of the building impossible to subdue, Sergeant Humble 

courageously handled the position and by prodigious efforts prevented the fire from travelling across a gantry, thereby saving the 

adjoining building. There was an ever present danger of explosion from time bombs and had it not been for the gallant action of 

Sergeant Humble and his initiative and leadership the fire might well have been far more serious than was eventually the case. 



George Ralph Holliday PAYNE Patrol Officer, Ilford Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Joseph Henry WARREN, Sub-Officer, Chelmsford Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Frederick George KEEN, Leading Fireman, Chelmsford Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During a serious fire resulting from enemy air attack the valve of a tank containing 6,000 tons of benzine was alight at the lower 

extremity of a big container and burning furiously. To extinguish this it was necessary to employ a very hazardous expedient, and 

upon calling for volunteers some members of the Ilford and Chelmsford A.F.S. Services were immediately forthcoming. A 30 ft. 

extending ladder was put against the side of the tank, and Patrol Officer Payne and Sub-Officer Warren ascended this to the top of 

the tank and opened the manhole there, thus releasing some very dangerous and highly inflammable fumes. They inserted a swanneck 

to enable water to be poured into the tank. When this was done Leading Fireman Keen mounted the ladder and packed wet 

sacking round the manhole to prevent the fumes from escaping. 

A second swan-neck was placed in position, and Leading Fireman Keen finding that fumes were still escaping, again ascended the 

ladder and packed more wet sacking around the manhole. At the time of these operations the tank was leaning over to one side, 

and in the event of spirit overflowing it would have poured down the side of the tank on to the burning valve, thus igniting the 

whole tank and endangering the lives of those dealing with the fire. 

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for Meritorious Service:— 


Charles Walter SAICH, Leading Fireman, Brentwood Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Cecil HEARN, Patrol Officer, Brentwood Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Patrol Officer Hearn and Leading Fireman Saich with other members of the A.F.S. proceeded to the scene of a bomb attack where 

pipe lines were well alight, petrol was ankle deep and the flames spreading rapidly. It was necessary to drive a piece of wood into 

a large shrapnel hole in a tank from which petrol was pouring L/Fm. Saich mounted the ladder. The first attempt failed and he was 

saturated with petrol. P.O. Hearn went to his assistance with a second piece of wood and held Saich while he drove it home with 

his axe. The remainder of the crew fought the fire to prevent it reaching their comrades and by their united efforts successfully 

saved this and several other tanks. 


Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence. (Supplement to L/G 35043, 17 th January 

1941. pp. 336/7.) 

Henry BAKER, Fireman, Thurrock Auxiliary Fire Service. 

William Percival BENNETT, Fireman, Thurrock Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Thomas Henry BEWLEY, Section Officer, Ipswich Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Arthur BLAIR., Auxiliary Fireman, Brentwood Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Herbert Stanley BROCKIS, Fireman, Thurrock Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Henry COLE, Chief Officer, Billericay Fire Brigade. 

Harry A. ELMES, Auxiliary Fireman, Brentwood Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Lionel Thomas FOWLER, Fireman, Thurrock Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Roy Meadows HARMSTON, Second Officer, Newport (Mon.) Fire Brigade. 

George Thomas HILL, Chief Officer, Letchworth Fire Brigade. 

Ernest Albert HOMEWOOD, Fireman, Eastbourne Fire Brigade. 

Stanley Guillians LANDI, Leading Fireman, Thurrock Auxiliary Fire Service. 

William Henry MONK, Station Officer, Thurrock Fire Brigade. 

Edward James MOYSER, Sub Officer, Southend-on-Sea Fire Brigade. 

Alfred Walter NORMAN, Chief Officer, Chelmsford Fire Brigade. 

George Harold SCOTT, Superintendent, Newport (Monmouth) Fire Brigade. 

Tom James Cyril SHERMAN, Auxiliary Fireman, Brentwood Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Henry Charles SIBLEY, Patrol Officer, Thurrock Fire Brigade. 

William James Frederick SMITH, Fireman, Thurrock Auxiliary Fire Service. 

William Edward SWEET, Chief Officer, Ipswich Fire Brigade. 

Leslie Ernest TYLER, Auxiliary Fireman, Brentwood Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Jack Arthur Garrett WATERS, Auxiliary Fireman, Brentwood Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Sidney Nelson WAYMARK, Sub-Officer, Eastbourne Fire Brigade. 

36

Roy WILLIAMSON, Chief Officer, Thurrock Fire Brigade. 

Horace William YOUELL, Leading Fireman, Chelmsford Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Awarded the George Medal: —(Fourth Supplement to the L/G, 35053, 24 th January 1941, pp. 483.) 

Harold Alexander WRIGHT, Sergeant, Liverpool Fire Brigade. 

A large building was struck by high explosive and incendiary bombs, structural damage was caused and a very serious fire 

resulted. The enemy returned, dropped high explosive bombs all round the scene of the fire and sprayed the building with 

machine gun bullets while the Fire Brigade was working to subdue the flames. 

Sergeant Wright was given the direction of a party of the Brigade working on the roof of the building. In spite of the intense heat, 

danger from exploding bombs and from machine gun fire, his party, encouraged by his example and resource, remained on the 

roof. They were successful in limiting the fire, which at one time appeared likely to involve the whole-of the large building, to a 

section of the top floor. 

The Sergeant carried out his duties in charge of a squad of men in a manner which showed his complete disregard of personal 

danger. He and his men were operating on the flat roof of the building, and the example and leadership shown by him were an 

inspiration. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Fourth Supplement to the L/G, 35053, 24 th. January 1941, pp. 486-8.) 

Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence. 

H. E. CLARKSON, Constable (Fireman), Salford Fire Brigade. 

W. FEATHERSTONE, Fireman, Whitley and Monkseaton Fire Brigade. 

E. G. HOBBS, Chief Officer, Barking Fire Brigade. 

Richard Wilfred MARTIN, Chief Fireman, Works A.F.S., Birmingham 

B.L.T.TRATT, Fireman, Whitley and Monkseaton Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the George Medal:— (Supplement to the L/G. 35055, 28 th January 1941, pp. 531.) 

Campbell Joseph KELLY, O.B.E., M.C, M.M., Control Officer, Works Air Defence Department, Coventry. 


David LLOYD, First Officer, Works Auxiliary Fire Service, Coventry. 

Mr. Kelly's organisation and personal bearing have been largely responsible for the building up of a highly efficient Works Air 

Raid Defence team. His personal activities on the night of an intensive air raid were largely instrumental in saving his factory 

from destruction. He extinguished an incendiary bomb and immediately afterwards took twelve volunteers to help the City Fire 

Service deal with a serious fire. After that, they attended at another fire and on the way back helped to extricate the bodies of 

policemen who were trapped in debris left by high explosive bombs. 

A large high explosive bomb hit a works shop but fire was avoided by prompt action under Kelly's guidance. Until five o'clock in 

the morning Kelly continued to give inspiring leadership to his men. There was no cover for any of the working parties and they 

all carried out what was asked of them with fortitude and courage. Mr. Kelly was ably assisted in this work by David Lloyd, First 

Officer of the Works Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Commendations:—(Fourth Supplement to the L/G 35055, 28 th January 1941, pp. 533). 

Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence: — 

Walter Ronald SELBY, Works Fireman, Coventry 

Awarded the George Medal: — (Supplement to the L/G 35058, 31st January 1941, pp. 608). 

James HARRIS, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Station Officer Harris has displayed outstanding initiative and courage at many large fires. His almost reckless courage in face of 

very grave danger was conspicuous when a fire occurred at a building containing explosive and his success in stopping the fire at a 

particularly vulnerable spot saved a number of buildings and magazines. 

On another occasion when his Division was badly attacked by succeeding waves of enemy aircraft which caused many fires, 

Section Officer Carson in the face of intense heat, mounted a stairway on to the blazing upper storey of a shed which contained 

goods of a Dangerous nature. His action prevented the spread of this fire. 

He then went to where buildings on both sides of a dock yard were blazing, furiously. Regardless of the danger involved, he made 

his way through the narrow entrance-and so made possible the use of suctions from the dock. The fierceness of the fire, prevented 

his return by the passage, but he made his way back along the dockwall. 

This officer's coolness and disregard of personal safety has had a „wonderful' effect on the personnel of the Division, while his 

efficiency in the laying out of hose .and so forth have saved much valuable property. 

Awarded the George Medal: —(Supplement to the L/G, 35058, 31 st January 1941, pp. 609). 

Henry Harrison Stephen KINLAN, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Edward James STORER, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Fireman Kinlan with Auxiliary Storer assisted in saving four buildings containing high explosives. They remained at their post in 

face of flying debris and exploding shells of various calibres and, by their action, set an example of courage to their comrades. 

They insisted on remaining even when reminded of the imminent danger of explosion. 

(Fm. Kinlan‘s George Medal was donated by his wife, who lived in the Thanet area, to the Kent Fire Brigade. It remains in the 

care of the Brigade‘s Museum and is on permanent display in the main corridor opposite the ‗Roll of Honour‘ boards. 

37

Before the war, Kinlan attended a Thanet school and later trained in Fleet Street to be a journalist. He later he worked joined the 

Isle of Thanet Gazette. He joined the A.F.S. in 1938 and became a full time member on the outbreak of war. His award was won, 

with Fm. Storer, at the Royal Arsenal, Woolwich ) 

Awarded the George Medal: —(Supplement to the L/G, 35058, 31 st January 1941, pp. 609). 

Timothy McGugnan MUIR, Acting Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Samuel Thomas MELVIN, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Sub-Officer Muir assisted with the rescue of nurses from a riverside hospital which was on fire as a result of enemy bombing. 

When told that the Matron was still in the hospital and despite the fact that the pier was also alight, he and Auxiliary Fireman 

Melvin re-entered the burning hospital and rescued her. The auxiliary tender in which they placed the Matron ran into a crater in 

the dense smoke, but they got her safely out of danger in another vehicle. 

Awarded the George Medal: —(Supplement to the L/G, 35058, 31 st January 1941, pp. 609.) 

William Charles SKILLERN, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Skillern was in charge of the first fire appliance attending a call to a building on fire. On arrival it was found that the major 

portion of the building had collapsed, part of the basement and the upper portion of the premises were on. fire, and persons were 

trapped in the basement. Skillern immediately took charge of the situation, controlled the operations for extinguishing the fire, 

and, at great personal risk, crawled through the debris into the basement where the buried people were entombed. From this 

position he directed and encouraged the activities of his crew in their efforts to release these persons. As a result of his leadership 

and .the example to his men, twenty people were successfully rescued. 


Gillian Kluane TANNER, Auxiliary, Women's Auxiliary Fire Service, London, 

Six serious fires were in progress and for three hours Auxiliary Tanner drove a 30-cwt. lorry loaded with 150 gallons of petrol in 

cans from fire to fire replenishing petrol supplies, despite intense bombing at the time. She showed remarkable coolness and 

courage throughout. 


Aylmer Maurice YOUNG, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During an aerial bombardment a bomb fell causing a large crater on a kerbside, demolishing the lower part of the ground floor and 

basement of a public house and fracturing gas services and, a large water main. Seven persons were sheltering in the basement 

which was rapidly filling with water. A trailer pump attended and immediately on arrival, Young, without hesitation and at great 

personal risk, entered the basement, which by this time had filled to a depth of about five feet and was in complete darkness, and 

succeeded in rescuing six of the inmates. 

Young continued the search and located the seventh person, who was pinned beneath the water by a fallen girder, and, 

notwithstanding the fact that the water was still rising, managed to extricate the man and facilitate his removal to the street. 

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for Meritorious Service: — 

(Supplement to the L/G, 35058, 31 st January 1941, pp. 611.) 

Richard Henry ASHTON, Acting Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

About fifty persons were cut off by fire and were in danger of being driven into the river by the flames. With great difficulty and 

while bombing was continuing Sub-Officer Ashton, who was in charge of a fire-boat, rescued the stranded people by towing them 

in a barge, skillfully avoiding other burning barges and disembarked them in safety. 



Frederick William CURTIS, Section Officer, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Curtis, whilst in charge of a trailer pump at a fire, was rendered unconscious by the blast from an explosive bomb. On recovering 

consciousness, he again took command of the fire, and set an outstanding example of courage and leadership to the men under his 

charge. 

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for Meritorious Service. 

(Supplement to the L/G .35058, 31 st January 1941, pp. 611.) 

Frank William HANDLEY, District Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

District Officer Handley has set an outstanding example by his general leadership and devotion to duty during extensive bombing 

of his area. His courage has inspired all the crews under his charge. During the nights of the heaviest attacks on London he 

attended many serious fires, and at several of these he was in sole charge until the arrival of a senior officer. His intimate 

knowledge of the area, inspiring leadership and devotion to duty undoubtedly contributed to a great extent towards the manner in 

which these fires were dealt with. As a result of his untiring efforts to secure water when a serious shortage existed at one fire a 

large part of the buildings were saved. 



Harold HYDES, District Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

38

Hydes has been in charge of a station which has been subjected to severe bombing. He has displayed exceptional leadership, 

courage and initiative and has set an excellent example under the most trying and dangerous circumstances at fires due to enemy 

action. 



Jack JOHNSON, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Dennis McCARTHY, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Auxiliary Firemen Johnson and Auxiliary Fireman D. McCarthy were at work on a Wharf when the explosion of a bomb nearby 

caused the wall to collapse, throwing them both to the ground and partially burying them in the debris. Although bruised and 

shaken they did not relax their efforts to subdue the flames and prevent the fire from showing a light to the enemy aircraft which 

were overhead. 


(Supplement to the L/G.35058, 31 st January 1941. pp. 611.) 

Edward MOYLAN, Acting Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

At a time when all efforts were being concentrated on a very large fire, this officer, with a comparatively small amount of 

apparatus and personnel at his disposal, successfully checked and eventually subdued a fire in a cartridge-filling factory. By his 

excellent leadership he saved another building, which, if it had become involved, would have caused a serious explosion. 



Samuel STILLWELL. Auxiliary Messenger, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

At a large Docks fire this boy was discovered holding a hose until relieved by firemen. He continued afterwards to deliver 

messages-and bring drinking-water to officers and men who were unable to leave their positions. Altogether Stillwell was at the 

fire in the Docks on the first day and night for over 14 hours and on five succeeding nights carried out duties at fires in the same 

area with great courage. He was quite indifferent to the danger he was in and, although ordered to shelter, he turned up again and 

again later in the night and the next morning carrying drinking water to the men on the hoses. 


(Supplement to the L/G.35058, 31 st January 1941. pp 612.) nb, also,‘Commended‘, 19 th December 1941. L/G. 35384, .pp. 7161. 

See pp. 68 of this listing) 

John Richard, UNWIN, District Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

District, Officer Unwin had been sent by Headquarters from fire to fire where there were special difficulties in rescue work or with 

fire fighting apparatus. He has carried out his special technical duties with conspicuous gallantry and complete disregard of 

danger and fatigue. He has been responsible for the saving of lives and appliances endangered as a result of enemy action. 



Annie Matilda WILKINS, Auxiliary, Women's Auxiliary Fire Service, London. 

Bessie Constance WULBERN, Auxiliary, Women's Auxiliary Fire Service, London. 

These women were alone in a sub-station while the immediate neighbourhood was being subjected to a most intensive bombing. 

Throughout they received and transmitted all their messages absolutely correctly, and reporting crews were sent to their correct 

fires with accuracy and despatch. When the station was struck by incendiary bombs and set on fire they reported this occurrence 

bv telephone to the local station, and remained at their posts until the officer-in-charge arrived and ordered them to leave the 

station. 

COMMENDATIONS. 

Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence: — (Supplement to the L/G. 35058, 31 st 

January 1941 pp. 612). 

Harold Richard BARRETT, Senior Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Louise FINBOW, Section Officer, Women's Auxiliary Fire Service, London. 

Leonard Ewart FOX, Sub Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Albert Richard SMITH, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Ralph SMITH, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

David STODDART, Section Officer, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Ernest Robert McDonald WELCH, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the George Medal:—(Supplement to the L/G. 35066, 7 th February 1941, pp. 740.) 

William WOODS, Chief Officer, Fire Brigade, Twickenham. 


Ernest Alfred STEVENS, Section Officer, Twickenham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Ernest William WELLER, Fireman, Twickenham Fire Brigade. 

On the occasion of a serious bombing incident when a number of houses and shops were wrecked, Chief Officer Woods, Station 

Officer Stevens and Fireman Weller were occupied for nearly three hours in rescue work, obtaining access to trapped inmates 

39

through a small hole in the debris. All the time there was the greatest likelihood that tons of masonry would collapse on them. 

Much of this was only supported by a few loose bricks. 


(Supplement to the L/G. 35066, 7 th February 1941, pp. 741.) 

Leslie John HALL, Acting Sub-Officer, Barking Fire Brigade 

Two machines left the station with Mr. Hall as Officer-in-Charge during intense enemy air activity. A bomb fell at the offside 

of the towing vehicle on which the Officer-in-Charge was riding. The crew, who had dismounted, were thrown to the ground 

and Hall was thrown by the blast against a brick pillar some distance away. The towing vehicle had been seriously effected by the 

bomb explosion and could not be removed. Hall thereupon ordered the crew to uncouple the trailer pump and manhandle it to the 

scene of the fire, where he and his men got to work. When the fire was extinguished Hall was taken to hospital. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Supplement to the L/G. 35066, 7 th February 1941, pp. 741/2.) 


William CHADWICK, Auxiliary Fireman, Nottingham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

John Richard COLLINS, Auxiliary Fireman, Nottingham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Sidney Arthur HUCKNALL, Patrol Officer, Nottingham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Francis Frederick WINSTANLEY, Auxiliary Fireman, Nottingham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

To be an Additional Commander of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (C.B.E.) :— 

(Supplement to the L/G. 35074, 14 th February 1941, pp. 869.) 

Major Frank Whitford JACKSON, D.S.O. Deputy Chief Officer Commanding the London Fire Brigade. 

Since the outbreak of war the Command of the London Fire Brigade has rested with Major Jackson, and to him has been entrusted 

the responsibility of coping with the many and difficult situations created in the London area by the enemy's attacks. The London 

Fire Service has successfully dealt with outbreaks of fire on a scale and in such numbers as have never previously been 

experienced. 

Particularly noteworthy was the manner in which, in spite of severe handicaps, the public Fire Services operated on the occasion 

of the enemy's incendiary attacks on the City of London on the night of the 29 th December, 1940. It is to Major Jackson's able and 

inspiring leadership that the success of the London Fire Service is in large measure due. His leadership of the Service throughout 

has been distinguished. 

He has shown marked personal gallantry on a number of occasions, and in the fullest sense has shared the dangers of his officers 

and men. 

Awarded the George Medal:—(Supplement to the L/G. 35074, 14 th February 1941, pp. 870.) 

Sidney Ernest George BRADFORD, Despatch Rider, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

A high explosive bomb demolished a house and people were buried in the wreckage. Despatch Rider Bradford, who was off duty 

at the time, and taking shelter nearby, immediately went to their assistance, and by hanging head downwards, whilst someone held 

his legs, cleared away wreckage for a period of one hour, after which he was overcome by gas. He received first aid treatment and 

wanted to carry on but was not allowed to do so. Through Bradford's efforts two people were rescued with only minor injuries. 

Awarded the George Medal:— (Supplement to the L/G. 35074, 14 th February 1941, pp. 872.) 

Frank Edward EVANS, Senior Station Officer, Brentford and Chiswick Fire Brigade. 

During a fight with one of three fires which were raging simultaneously, a large corrugated iron and wooden structure, containing 

paraffin wax, was involved. The building collapsed and the molten and ignited wax began to flow towards the river bank, and into 

some disused sludge tanks containing quantities of inflammable material. The burning wax which had flowed into the river was 

for a time held up by a number of barges, but eventually the mooring ropes burnt through, and as the barges began to move on the 

stream, the burning wax flared up around men on the wharf and endangered two pumps which were at work. Station Officer 

Evans and a Patrol Officer made every endeavour to save these pumps, and it was only when they were blinded by the heat and 

smoke that they gave up the attempt. In retreating, Station Officer Evans stumbled, fell into the wax, and was burnt on the hands 

and face. Assisted by the Patrol Officer he succeeded in collecting the personnel and reorganising them at strategic points to deal 

with the fires. Having done this he received first aid, and, later, he returned to the scene of the fire, where he remained until it was 

extinguished, some eleven hours afterwards. 

Awarded the George Medal:— (Supplement to the L/G. 35074, 14 th February 1941, pp. 873.) 

Frederick James SKELTON, Company Officer, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

When a fire station was hit and set on fire by a bomb, Company Officer Skelton showed great courage in attempting to rescue two 

firemen who were trapped in the building. He was badly burned in his gallant effort. 

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for Meritorious Service :— 

(Supplement to the L/G. 35074, 14 th February 1941, pp. 876/7.) 

William Charles CESANA, District Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

District Officer Cesana has attended a series of fires and on numerous occasions he has been solely in charge until the arrival of a 

senior officer. At all times he has carried out his work in a very efficient and cool manner. He especially distinguished himself at 

a large fire in a danger building in which quantities of H.E. shells of various calibre were involved. At this fire violent explosions 

40

were continually taking place, and until the arrival of a senior officer, Cesana handled the resources at his disposal with good 

effect, doing much towards the final extinguishing of the fire. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Supplement to the L/G. 35074, 14 th February 1941, pp. 880/1.) 

Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence: 

Frederick John ALLEN, Works Assistant Fire Brigade Officer, Woolwich. 

Herbert George ALLISON, Works Auxiliary Fireman, Woolwich. 

George Herbert DANIELS, Works Auxiliary Fireman, Woolwich. 

George Robert GREEN, Auxiliary Fireman, Barking Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Martin Spensley HAIR, Auxiliary Fireman, Liverpool Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Leonard MYERS, Leading Fireman, Tottenham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Harold NICE, Auxiliary Fireman, Barking Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Malcolm PALMER, Auxiliary Fireman, Liverpool Auxiliary Fire Service. 

William George PERRY (deceased), Auxiliary Fireman, Bristol Auxiliary Fire Service. 

William Leonard PLUMRIDGE, Patrol Officer, Brentford and Chiswick Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Robert SHAW Works Auxiliary Fireman, Woolwich. 

Edith Lilian SMITH, Auxiliary, Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Alma Muriel THOMPSON, Telephonist, Tottenham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

George William TUCK, Auxiliary Fireman, Barking Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Robert Edward WAITE, Auxiliary Fireman, Barking Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Ernest Sidney WEST, Leading Fireman, Norwich City Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Second Supplement to the L/G. 35081, 21 st February 1941. pp. 1059.) 

Robert Francis CARSON, Section Officer, Liverpool Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Following an enemy air attack fire broke out in the skeleton framework of a damaged elevator. It was impossible to place a fire 

escape against the elevator on account of the debris which had fallen from the destroyed roof. The outbreak took place high up in 

the framework and it was clear that it was not practicable to attack it from the ground. The only solution was that someone should 

attempt the dangerous climb up the elevator girder-work. Torn steel sheets, broken timbers and displaced ironwork projected at 

many places and slates and debris were still falling, but, without hesitation, Section Officer Carson placed a hose and branch over 

his shoulder and successfully made the climb. 

He extinguished the fire in about ten minutes. On another occasion when his Division was badly attacked by succeeding waves of 

enemy aircraft which caused many fires, Section Officer Carson in .the face of intense heat, mounted a stairway on to the blazing 

upper storey of a shed which contained goods of a dangerous nature. His action prevented the spread of this fire. He then went to 

where buildings on both sides of a dock yard were blazing furiously. 

Regardless of the danger involved, he made his way through the narrow entrance and so made possible the use of suctions from 

the dock. The fierceness of. the fire prevented his return by the passage, but he made his way back along the dock wall. This 

officer's coolness and disregard of personal safety has had a wonderful effect on the personnel of the Division, whilst his 

efficiency in the laying out of hose and so forth have saved much valuable property. The fire was brought under control within 

two hours. 

Ross displayed the greatest courage and resource, and was an inspiration to his men. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Second Supplement to the L/G. 35081, 21 st February 1941, pp. 1060.) 

Alister McWilliam ROSS, Patrol Officer. Liverpool Auxiliary Fire Service. 

A high explosive bomb dropped in the yard of a grease company. Drums of grease and a vat of tar were smashed open by the 

force of the explosion and set on fire. Within a minute or so the blazing tar and grease were flowing down the street capped by a 

wall of flame and threatening to spread to the high warehouses adjoining. 

A pump turned out in charge of Patrol Officer Ross who gave orders for sand to be put down to dam the flow of tar. Loud screams 

were heard coming from a school next to the burning premises, and Ross taking a heavy axe and covered by a water screen from 

one of the hoses worked his way up the street to the school door. Breaking it open he found two women who had by this time 

become hysterical, and he had forcibly to drag them from the building, through the flames, to safety. This accomplished, he 

returned to the school to assure himself that there was no one else in the building. He then rejoined his pump crew. 

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire,for Meritorious Service:—(Second 

Supplement to the L/G. 35081, 21 st February 1941, pp. 1060.) 

Donald Roy ABBS, Sub-Officer, Tottenham Fire Brigade. 

Whilst assigned to the tires at the docks Sub-Officer Abbs was instrumental in getting a number of pumps to work which had been 

temporarily out of action owing to severe bombing. Delayed action bombs near fires which he has attended have in no way 

discouraged this Officer. He imparts confidence to all men under his command by his coolness and daring. 

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for Meritorious Service:— (Second 

Supplement to the L/G. 35081, 21 st February 1941, pp. 1061.) 

Harold William HEPTINSTALL, Deputy Chief Officer, Thurrock Fire Brigade. 

Following an enemy air raid a large fire broke out. Deputy Chief Officer Heotinstall handled the incident in a magnificent manner. 

It was largely owing to his bravery and fine leadership that the fire which at one time assumed alarming proportions, was 

extinguished. 

41

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for Meritorious Service:—(Second 

Supplement to the L/G. 35081, 21 st February 1941. pp. 1062.) 

Beatrice Maud, Mrs. PLIMMER, Company Officer, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Mrs. Plimmer showed great courage and coolness whilst in charge of the Women Auxiliaries when large fires and intensive enemy 

bombing were persistent in the London Dock Area. In addition to maintaining communications, Company Officer Plimmer 

organised a first aid post and emergency canteen, and saw to the comfort of wounded firemen. 


Supplement to the L/G 35081, 21 st February 1941, pp. 1062.) 

John Chasue SARGENT, Second Officer, Tottenham Fire Brigade. 

Second Officer Sargent supervised the fighting of oil fires during very heavy bombing. He has attended the large majority of all 

the serious fires in his district and on at least six occasions has nearly lost his life in such endeavours. 


Those named, below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence. — (Second Supplement to the L/G 35081, 

21 st February 1941, pp. 1062/3.) 

Leslie Joseph ARKINSTALL, Auxiliary Fireman, Birmingham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Sidney Squires BAKER, Temporary Acting Sub- Officer, London Fire Brigade 

Hilda Ann May CARTER, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Alfred James CHURCHWARD, Despatch Rider, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Eric William FILER, Despatch Rider, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Frederick George FORD, Leading Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Miss Hilda Ivy GRIFFITHS, Telephonist, Tottenham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Joseph George GRIFFITHS, Auxiliary Fireman,. Tottenham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Allan Charles HARMER, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Ernest Walter HARRIS, Auxiliary Fireman, Tottenham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Richard James HUBBARD, Section Officer, Tottenham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Henry William KNIGHT (deceased), Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

William Reid LAY, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

George POCOCK, Senior Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Miss Joan Ethel SARGENT, Telephonist, Tottenham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Thomas Daniel SIMMONDS, Section Officer, Southend-on-Sea Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Robert James THORNLEY, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Anita YOUNG, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

St. James's Palace, S.W.I. 25 th February, 1941. (Clearly, this is not a F.B George Medal. It is included in this list becauses the 

citation shows the rescue was a joint effort and gives us an insight into the ‗all shoulders to the wheel‘ attitude prevailing at the 

time.) 

The KING has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the George Medal to: —(L/G 35087, 25 th February 1941, pp. 

1151). 

956216 Aircraftman, 2nd Class, Horace Dews, Royal Air Force. 

During a heavy air raid an A.F.S. crew were endeavouring to release a woman and child who were pinned against the basement 

wall of a demolished building by an iron girder. Fire was raging at the time and the whole building had collapsed upon the 

basement, out of which therefore there was no exit. The woman and child could be plainly seen down the side cellar wall and 

frantic efforts were made to release them, as the heat was intense and the smoke suffocating. 

Numerous members of the A.F.S. had given valuable assistance, but the combination of the heat and smoke had caused them to 

become exhausted. At this point, Aircraftman Dews took up a position full length on the debris and dug away with his hands at 

the rubble surrounding the woman but could not make a very substantial hole as the way was blocked by a dead body, an iron 

girder and baulks of timber. It was evident that the only thing to do was to get into the hole which had been made and try to 

release, at least, the child, because the heat and smoke were becoming more intense. 

Aircraftman Dews immediately volunteered. He forced his body, head foremost into the hole, but several times he had to extricate 

himself on account of the heat. This was overcome by playing the hose upon him actually as he was in the hole. At last he 

reached the child and crawled back with her in his arms. Dews then freed the woman, who was pulled out of the hole. Shortly 

after their release the fire spread to the spot where they had been trapped. 

St. James's Palace, S.W. I. 7 th March, 1941. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the undermentioned appointments to the Most Excellent Order of the 

British Empire, for the following awards of the George Medal and the Medal of the said Most Excellent Order, and for the 

publication in the London Gazette of the names of the persons specially shown below as having received an expression of 

Commendation for their brave conduct in Civil Defence. (Supplement to the L/G. 35095, 7 th March 1941, pp. 1343/4.) 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire:— (Supplement to the L/G. 

35095, 7 th March 1941, pp. 1343/4.) 

George DRURY, Regional Fire Brigades Inspector, South Western Civil Defence Region H.Q. Bristol. 

42

During heavy air raids on Bristol, Mr. Drury displayed operational efficiency of a high order, involving ability in organisation, 

ingenuity and resourcefulness. In addition he has shown high courage and endurance. He attended, personally, a number of large 

fires, arranged water supplies, organised additional assistance and, with the co-operation of the authorities, evolved an extremely 

effective fire fighting organisation. 


35095, 7 th March 1941, pp. 1343/4.) 

Henry Martin SMITH, Home Office (Fire Brigade Division) Regional Inspector, Southern Civil Defence Region, 

During heavy air raids on Portsmouth, Mr. Smith's services were invaluable. He visited many fires giving advice and help 

wherever possible. His administrative ability, bravery, and leadership were outstanding, and he showed great devotion to duty 

with complete disregard for his own safety. 


(Supplement to the L/G. 35095, 7 th March 1941, pp. 1346.) 

Wilfred BECKETT, Works Fireman, Manchester. 

Throughout the night and early hours of the morning during an enemy air attack. Beckett and his men fought a large fire in a 

warehouse. Beckett's conduct and bravery were outstanding. His constant activity greatly contributed to the saving of the 

warehouse and adjacent buildings. He fought the fire from an exposed fire escape, from the roof, and even from the interior of the 

burning building, with fearless courage. 


(Supplement to the L/G. 35095, 7 th. March 1941, pp. 1347.) 

William Benjamin MENDHAM, Company Officer, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Alfred NORTH, Senior Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

On the occasion of serious fires in the City, Company Officer Mendham worked unceasingly for over eight hours taking different 

crews into various buildings where fires had gained a strong hold. These buildings were considered unsafe owing to hits by high 

explosive bombs. His prompt actions confined the fires to the scenes of origin. Senior Fireman North led parties of men to the 

upper floors of two separate eight storey buildings where fire had obtained a good hold, and was threatening other buildings as 

well as showing considerable light to the enemy overhead. By his exertions, leadership and initiative, the fires were confined to 

these two buildings and quickly subdued. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Supplement to the L/G. 35095, 7 th March 1941, pp. 1347/8.) 


John James ATKINSON, Constable, Liverpool Fire Brigade. 

Harold EMERY, Member, Works Fire Brigade, Birmingham. 

Harry Charles FISK, Constable, Liverpool Fire Brigade. 

Lionel Frederick GRAPE, Section Officer, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Bernard John Kendall HARRIS, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

James Edward HAYWARD, Member of Works Fire Brigade, Birmingham. 

Edward Edgar JONES, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

James Lindsey KINSELL, Section Officer, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Robert Henry LLEWELLYN, Member of Works Fire Brigade, Birmingham. 

Leonard William LOCK, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Alfred William POTTER, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Peter PRITCHARD, Deputy Chief Officer, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 

Arthur RIDLEY, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Frederick WAIN, Chief Officer, Ramsgate Fire Brigade. 

Bertram Seymour WHIDBOURNE, M.C., Section Officer, London Auxiliary Fire Service. (was an acting Captain (Substantive 

Lt.) in the Army Service Corps during W.W.1. Unfortunately it has not been possible to find the citation for Whidbourne‘s M C.) 

Awarded the George Medal:—(Second Supplement to the L/G. 35104, 14 th March 1941, pp. 1504.) 

John James JONES, Senior Refinery Fireman, National Oil Refineries Fire Services. 

Bombs, dropped on an oil tanker, started fires in a tank and on deck. All the ship's tanks were in a gassy condition and therefore 

liable to explode. 

Fireman Jones and a volunteer party, assisted by members of the jetty staff and some of the ship's personnel, boarded the ship and 

extinguished the fire in the tank. There still remained a rope fire on the fo'c'sle head which was not readily accessible. Fireman 

Jones made a hazardous climb up the damaged structure, without ladders, on to this deck and put out the fire by means of water 

passed up in buckets from the sea. It was an extremely dangerous climb in the dark with bombs dropping and a heavy barrage 

overhead. Jones showed great courage and saved the tanker from destruction. 

Awarded the George Medal:—(Second Supplement to the L/G. 35104, 14 th March 1941, pp. 1504.) 

William SHUTT, Auxiliary Fireman, Birmingham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During an air raid a large fire broke out in some old four-storey buildings. The crews could make little progress owing to three 

gas mains which were burning at various parts of the premises. Auxiliary Shutt volunteered to enter the buildings and attempt to 

cut off the gas. Under extremely dangerous conditions he worked in the building for about forty minutes. Heavy girders, 

43

machinery and walls were continually falling and the fire was blazing fiercely. He advanced through the burning buildings and 

was successful in partially reducing the gas jets in two places. 

He was finally brought out in an exhausted condition, but insisted on remaining with the crews until the conflagration was brought 

under control. 


Supplement to the L/G. 35104, 14 th March 1941, pp. 1505.) 

James William FAWELL, Leader, Fire-fighting Service, James Pitkin & Co. Ltd., London. 

During an intensive raid on the City, a particularly fierce fire broke out in a factory stored with timber and furniture. Fawell 

arranged for two hoses to be brought from the street, through a courtyard, and over the roof. These were played on the fire all 

night and the surrounding works were saved. 

It was entirely due to Fawell‟s initiative, in very dangerous conditions, that the fire was prevented from spreading. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Second Supplement to the L/G. 35104, 14 th March 1941, pp. 1506/7.) 


Joseph William ARMITAGE, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Albert Francis CONWAY, Officer, Company Fire Brigade, Standard Telephone & Cables Limited. 

Thomas Frederick ELLIS, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Dennis Horace Albert GAY, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Sheila Margot Amy McKECHNIE, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Edith May McNAMARA, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Joyce Victoria PAYNE, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Albert Edward RICHARDSON, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Arthur John ROLES, Senior Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Albert Max VETTERLEIN, Despatch Rider, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Alfred Sidney Ernest WILLIS, Despatch Rider, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

To be an Additional Member of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire:— (Supplement to the L/G 

35111, 21 st March 1941. pp. 1639.) 

Albert Edward JOHNSON, D.S.M., Superintendent, Police Fire Brigade, Portsmouth. 

Superintendent Johnson displayed commendable courage, determination and leadership during enemy air raids on Portsmouth. He 

visited the concentrated fire areas, regardless of all personal danger, giving directions and encouragement to the personnel. He 

was largely responsible for the excellent state of the morale of the fire righting services, and his help was incalculable. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 35111, 21 st March 1941. pp. 1640.) 

Calvpso Clarence GAMMON, District Officer. Birmingham Fire Brigade, 

District Officer Gammon was in charge at premises which had been severely bombed and were ablaze from end to end. An 

Auxiliary Fireman, whilst engaged on the fire, ventured too far alone; one of the passage-ways at the side of the building. The 

heat caused one wall to collapse outwards and he was struck, rendered unconscious and buried by the debris. Gammon found him 

in a sitting position surrounded by burning wreckage. His legs were pinned under a large concrete girder and the flames were 

rapidly sweeping towards him. The District Officer removed the almost red hot brickwork with his hands, and, despite the fact 

that other portions of the wall were continually falling in and the fire had almost reached him, succeeded in lifting the concrete 

girder and released the man. District Officer Gammon displayed great courage and disregard for his own safety. 


(Supplement to the L/G 35111, 21 st March 1941. pp. 1642.) 

Charles BIGLAND, Constable, Salford Fire Brigade. 

During an air raid Constable Bigland was one of a detachment sent to a gas works, where an incendiary bomb had penetrated the 

top of a gasometer, causing a tongue of flame which was acting as a beacon to enemy aircraft. 

A hose was placed into position at the side of the gasometer which was then between sixty and seventy feet, in height. Bigland 

immediately climbed up a steel ladder to the top, lay flat on his stomach and remained in that position until he had succeeded in 

subduing the flame with a powerful jet. Employees of the gas works then sealed the hole with a steel plate and clay. Bigland's 

fearless action set a magnificent example to others working with him. 

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for Meritorious Service 

(Supplement to the L/G 35111, 21 st March 1941. pp. 1643). 

George Harold NICHOLLS, Section Officer, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Upon arrival at a fire it was reported to Nicholls that a woman was trapped in the building. Although the roof was liable to fall, 

and there was a possibility of being overcome by escaping gas, he disregarded all danger and crawled through the debris, rendered 

First Aid, and finally rescued her. The roof actually collapsed a few minutes after the woman had been brought to safety. 

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for Meritorious Service: — 

(Supplement to the L/G. 35111, 21 st March 1941. pp. 1643/4.) 

Tom Nicholas WILCOCK, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

44

Station Officer Wilcock was in charge of a Fire Pump when a bomb exploded nearby, disabling the appliance, severely wounding 

one member of the crew and injuring two others. Several trams and a char-a-banc were wrecked, and two gas mains, one on each 

side of the road, were fractured and set on fire. Assisted by his men, he forced his way into a burning tramcar and extricated the 

injured conductor and passengers. After his wounds had been dressed he returned to the station, and, obtaining a spare appliance, 

had it manned by some of his crew, with himself in charge. Wilcock, although suffering great pain from cuts and shock caused by 

glass splinters and blast, showed initiative and courage. 


Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence. (Supplement to the L/G 35111, 21 st March 

1941 pp. 1643/1644). 

Francis Henry ARDEN. Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Arthur Cyril BEECH. Patrol Officer, Patrol Officer, Wolverhampton Auxiliary Fire Brigade. 

Henry George Percy BLUNDEN, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

James BOWTELL, Section Officer, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Leonard Albert BUTCHERS. Temporary Acting Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

James CALVERT, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Patricia May DAVIES, Auxiliary, London Woman‟s Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Arthur David DUFTY, Auxiliary Messenger, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Arthur John ELLIS, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

John EVANS, Acting Officer, Birmingham Fire Brigade. 

James HOGAN, Leading Fireman, Birmingham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Rosina HOLTON, Auxiliary, London Woman‟s Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Leonard Frank KING, Auxiliary, London Woman‟s Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Arthur Horace LANCASTER, Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Reginald Bertram LITTLE, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Jean Adele MACKIE, Auxiliary, London Woman‟s Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Sydney Stuart MACRO, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

George William METCALFE., Fireman, Birmingham Fire Brigade. 

Bertie Edward PEARMINE, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

George SHEDDEN, Temporary Acting Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Charles Albert STEVENS, Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Charles Albert William TIMME, Leading Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Frederick Charles WALTER, Temporary Acting Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Alfred WHITE, Fireman, Birmingham Fire Brigade. 

Charles Albert WILFORD, Fireman, Birmingham Fire Brigade. 


The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the publication in the London Gazette of the names of the persons 

specially shown below as having received an expression of Commendation for their brave conduct. (L/G 35111, 21 st March 

1941, pp. 1644.) 

For services when an enemy plane caught fire. 

Arthur Thomas BEAUMONT (deceased) Sub-Officer, Faversham Fire Brigade. (An enemy plane crashed and caught fire. The 

crew were trapped in the plane and the brigade made strenuous efforts to release them. Beaumont was using an extinguisher on 

the flames from close quarters when the bomb load exploded, killing him instantly. L/Fm. Davy (aged 48) of Faversham A.F.S. 

was fatally injured. In 1992, a new fire station was opened in the town and the road leading to it has been named, ‗Beaumont 

Davy Close‘). 

William MOSEDALE, Station Officer and Rescue Officer, Birmingham Fire Brigade. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to award the GEORGE CROSS to: —(Supplement to the L/G 35117, 28 th March 1941 

pp. 1777). 

An Auxiliary Fire Station was completely demolished by a very large high explosive bomb. A number of Auxiliary Firemen were 

trapped in the station and civilians were buried in an adjoining house which had also been demolished. Station Officer Mosedale 

immediately began tunnelling and propping operations. Hundreds of tons of debris covered the site and Mosedale fully realised 

that at any moment he might be buried by a further collapse. When the first tunnel was completed and the Control Room reached, 

he found that there were still men whom he could not extricate. He carried out another tunneling operation from a different 

direction and again entered the Control Room. Five men were found, one dead, the others injured. 

The Station Officer crawled through and administered oxygen to the injured men and they were then taken out through the tunnel. 

The entrance to the cellar of the private house was full of debris. Station Officer Mosedale directed operations for removing this, 

only to find that the cellar itself had collapsed. He nevertheless persevered and, after a time, reached seven people who were 

trapped. Three had been killed outright when the roof collapsed. He gave oxygen to the remaining four and succeeded in 

extricating them. To reach other victims it was again necessary to tunnel, and Mosedale immediately commenced this work.. The 

dangers to be faced were similar to those which he had found in reaching the Control Room. He nevertheless completed the 

tunnel and entered the cellar under the Fire Station. Four men who were alive were given oxygen and, despite their injuries, were 

safely removed. 

45

Tunnelling through such difficult material had necessarily been extremely, hazardous, and the cellar collapsed completely, shortly 

after the removal of the last victim. These operations, which lasted more than twelve hours, were carried out under a most intense 

bombardment. Twelve lives were saved by Station Officer Mosedale who showed outstanding gallantry and resource. In 

effecting the rescues he repeatedly risked his own life. 


35117, 28 th March 1941. pp. 1778.) 

Edward Howell DAVIES, Chief Superintendent, London Fire Brigade. 

Chief Superintendent Davies has attended numerous fires in his District and his supervision of rescue work has been outstanding. 

He has proved himself cool and courageous and, in spite of long hours and continuous night work, the administration of his 

District has been excellent. 


35117 28 th March 1941. pp. 1778). 

Trevor Frank WATKINS, Chief Superintendent, London Fire Brigade. 

During intensive air raids in his District, Superintendent Watkins has shown the greatest qualities of leadership, initiative and 

courage. On one occasion he was the first to enter a smoke-logged building and vent it for his men. Despite long hours and 

fatigue, he has ably controlled the administration of his District. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 35117, 28 th March 1941. pp. 1778.) 

Herbert Charles BARKER. Auxiliary Fireman. London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

A private house was severely damaged by a high explosive bomb. A woman was trapped by debris on a bed in a very precarious 

position on the partly demolished third floor. At great personal risk Auxiliary Fireman Barker crawled across the floor, which was 

hanging at an angle, and secured a line around her. He was then able, with some assistance to pull her off the bed to safety. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 35117, 28 th March 1941. pp. 1778.) 

Roy Clifford DAY, Fireman, Southampton Auxiliary Fire Service. 

This man was a member of an Auxiliary Fire Service crew which had no previous experience of sustained and widespread 

incendiary attack accompanied by H.E. bombardment. 

After continuously fighting fires during heavy bombing, their appliance was damaged by the explosion of two H.E. bombs 

immediately in front of them. It was eventually necessary for all of the crew, except Day, to be removed to hospital. A further call 

came and Day, who was strongly advised to rest and recover, insisted on taking out the pump by himself to the scene of the fire, 

through conditions even more difficult than those of his earlier journeys. He succeeded in reaching his destination and continued 

working most efficiently throughout the night. 

Day displayed sustained courage of a high order in difficult and dangerous circumstances which were quite new to him. 

Awarded the George Medal:— (Supplement to the L/G. 35117, 28 th March 1941. pp. 1779) 

George Tyrell ROBINSON. Fireman, Southampton Fire Brigade. 

During an air raid on Southampton a high explosive bomb fell close to Robinson's pump and crew, killing three men and seriously 

injuring four others. Robinson immediately rallied the remainder of his personnel to deal with the fire fighting operations, whilst 

he rendered First Aid to the injured. He then drove two of the casualties to hospital. Robinson returned to the fire, to resume 

charge of the operations, until it was brought under control. 

During the whole time he was working in very dangerous conditions. His coolness and gallantry in rallying and directing the crew 

after their mates had been killed, saved the fire from spreading and his promptitude in dealing with the seriously injured 

undoubtedly saved their lives. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to the L/G 35117, 28 th March 1941. pp. 1780.) 

John Llewellyn DAVIES. Auxiliary Fireman. Chingford Auxiliary Fire Service. 


(Supplement to the L/G 35117, 28 th March 1941. pp. 1780.) 

Benjamin Stanley MUSGRAVE, A.R.P. Warden, Chingford. 

During a heavy air raid several houses were destroyed. The debris caught fire and blazed fiercely. Fireman Davies‟ house was 

severely damaged and he was badly shaken. Immediately he had recovered he went to a wrecked house in which two persons and 

a child were trapped under a bed. 

Having located the casualties, he burrowed into the debris with his bare hand. He succeeded in reaching the bed and, finding the 

baby, he passed it out to the Wardens. He then tried to release the other victims. This he could not do unaided and Warden 

Musgrave volunteered to help him. Davies then levered up the debris with his body whilst Musgrave crawled under the bed and 

allowed himself to be pulled out with the woman on his back. Still taking the weight of the debris, Davies, after fifteen minutes, 

succeeded in releasing the remaining trapped person who was then drawn to safety. 

Davies was in a state of collapse and had to receive first aid treatment but, when it was reported that another child was trapped, he 

again crawled under the wreckage and continued working for the rest of the night. His heroic action saved many lives. 

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for meritorious service. 

(Supplement to the L/G. 35117, 28 th March 1941. pp. 1780.) 

Sidney John BOISSONADE, Station Officer Coventry Fire Brigade. 

46

Norman Frederick BROWN, Third Officer Coventry Fire Brigade. 

William Michael MADDOCKS, Divisional Officer Coventry Auxiliary Fire Brigade. 

During the heavy air raid on Coventry these officers undertook a tremendous task and carried it out in a most highly commendable 

manner. They were responsible for an extremely efficient and intricate system of water relaying water in the centre of the City, as 

a result of which the spread of fire in this highly congested area was checked at many points. Between them they rallied and 

encouraged crews whose endurance was severely taxed. In movements of men and appliances they employed skill and resource 

for which previous experience had set no standards to act as a guide. Their cheerfulness and absolute disregard of personal safety 

were outstanding. 

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for Meritorious Service. 

(Supplement to the L/G.35117, 28 th March 1941. pp. 1780.) 

Percy Alexander Bertram BOYES, Messenger. Southampton Auxiliary Fire Brigade. 

During an air raid on Southampton this messenger was attached to Headquarters for the purpose of guiding reinforcing Fire 

Brigades to the scenes of fires. Boyes showed great courage and devotion to duty under heavy bombardment and remained at his 

post throughout. 



Thomas PEARSON, Section Officer, Walsall Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Fred THICKETT, Works Foreman, Walsall Corporation Gas Department. 

A high explosive bomb struck the top edge of a gas-holder making a hole in the crown and igniting the gas. Hoses were played 

upon the holder in order to keep it cool, but flames were still coming out of the hole. Throughout the proceedings Pearson, 

Thickett and Hateley were on the edge never more than three feet away from the fire. Efforts were made to stop up the opening by 

means of corrugated sheets. This was only partially effective, and flames were still coming through. Pearson and Thickett then 

endeavoured to cover the hole with a tarpaulin. With Hateley, they stepped on to the holder and pulled the sheet over the gaps that 

remained. During this time the three men were near the centre of the crown in very grave danger, for the holder had sunk to near 

the ground and there was risk of explosion. Showing complete disregard for their own safety, they persisted in their efforts and 

were eventually successful in putting out the fire. 

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for Meritorious Service. 

(Supplement to the L/G. 35117, 28 th March 1941. pp. 1780/1). 

James Thomas CLARKE, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Fred THOMPSON, Senior Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

When a large building was partly demolished by a high explosive bomb, several persons were buried under the debris. Thompson 

and Clarke, at great personal risk, repeatedly entered the building for rescue purposes, searching for and rendering first aid to the 

victims. Their courage and endurance set a fine example. 


(Supplement to the L/G. 35117, 28 th March 1941. pp. 1781). 

Derek Albert DURBRIDGE, Messenger, Coventry Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Messenger Durbridge was acting as guide to a crew during an air raid on Coventry when a bomb exploded nearby and he was 

blown across the street. He recovered consciousness some time later to find himself lying within a few feet of a blazing building. 

He was covered with debris, and it was some time before he could extricate himself. He reported back to the Central Fire Station 

and insisted on resuming his duties. Later in the night he was again caught by the blast of an exploding bomb and flung against a 

wall. Despite a badly bruised back, he carried out his duties during the remainder of the night. 



Edward William Robert MORGAN, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

A large six-floor warehouse received direct hits from bombs. Whilst fire-fighting was in progress, crews were subjected to further 

bombing and the Officer in charge was killed. Others of the detachment were severely injured, water mains fractured and gas 

mains set alight. Station Officer Morgan temporarily assumed command. The severely injured were removed to hospital, the 

water supply was augmented and the fire brought under control. This was in large measure due to his courage and leadership. 


(Supplement to the L/G.35117, 28 th March 1941. pp. 1781.) 

Sydney Herbert POW, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

A number of firemen were trapped beneath debris after a building had received a direct hit by high explosive and incendiary 

bombs. Pow assisted to extricate them at considerable personal risk. Over the whole period of air raids he has shown great 

devotion to duty and has played a conspicuous part in fighting serious fires and bringing them under control. 


(Supplement to the L/G. 35117, 28 th March 1941. pp 1782). 

Leslie William George WILSON, Station Officer, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

(Award dated 6th October, 1940. He has since been killed on duty.) 

47

Wilson showed great proficiency and set an excellent example, in very trying conditions, at a number of fires which occurred 

during air raids. On one occasion, at great personal risk, he endeavoured to extricate several persons who were trapped beneath 

the debris of a burning building. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Supplement to the L/G. 35117, 28 th March 1941. pp. 1782.) 


Edith May ANSETT. Auxiliary, London Women‟s Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Winifred Frances BOLSCH, Auxiliary, London Women‟s Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Sidney BOWDLER, Messenger, Coventry Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Herbert Benjamin Henry GOLDEN, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Lilian Mary, Mrs. HAMPTON. Telephonist, Coventry Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Muriel McCULLY, Auxiliary, London Women‟s Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Martha Louise SIMPSON, Auxiliary, London Women‟s Auxiliary Fire Service. 

John Edward SINNET, Chief Clerk, Coventry Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Charles STAINTON, Messenger, Coventry Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Florence Lillian STONE, Auxiliary, London Women‟s Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Jack Aubrey WING. Auxiliary, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Awarded the George Medal:— (Supplement to the L/.G .35125, 4 th April 1941, pp. 1946.) 

Allan Frank LOCKE, District Officer, London Fire Brigade. 


(Supplement to the L/.G. 35125, 4 th April 1941, pp. 1946.) 

Arthur Richard BACON, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

A H.E. bomb fell on a large building, caused a fire and trapped people in the wreckage. The fire was quickly extinguished by the 

Fire Brigade. To reach the casualties it was necessary to tunnel under the debris a distance of about eight feet, and certain 

masonry and a ventilating shaft had to be jacked up. The work of tunnelling was carried out by Mr. Locke. A woman was 

extricated after two hours. Locke continued to tunnel a further six feet and cut away a millboard partition. After another hour's 

work a second person was released. Station Officer Bacon, who had been assisting Mr. Locke, then took over and tunnelled a 

further three feet to get at a man who was badly injured and pinned under a heap of masonry. This man was extricated two hours 

later. District Officer Locke and Station Officer Bacon carried out the work of rescue in extremely difficult and dangerous 

conditions and showed great skill and courage. 


(Supplement to the L/.G. 35125, 1 st April 1941, pp. 1946). 

Joseph Horace BROWN, Leading Fireman, Coventry Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Brown showed conspicuous courage in remaining with his appliance while bombs dropped close by. He was rendered unconscious 

by blast but on recovery continued his job. When an incendiary bomb fell on the petrol tank of a towing vehicle he 

drove it to a jet to be extinguished. The car although slightly damaged was saved. Brown displayed a fine devotion to duty 

throughout the night. 


(Supplement to the L/.G. 35125, 1 st April 1941, pp. 1946.) 

Henry ELLIS, Divisional Officer, Swansea Auxiliary Fire Service. 

On various occasions Divisional Officer Ellis has tackled fires with such efficiency that they have been quickly controlled and 

prevented from spreading. His courage and devotion to duty have been an example to all men under his charge, and the cool and 

efficient manner in which he carried out his many difficult tasks instilled confidence and respect. 



Percy William HARRIS, Company Officer, London Auxiliary Fire Service. (Supplement to the L./G. 35081 April 1 st 1940, pp 

1946.) 

During the early stages of an aerial attack this officer was the first to render assistance in rescuing persons from an air-raid shelter 

which had received a direct hit. His resourcefulness and hard work at the large fires which followed were an outstanding example 

of unselfish service. He displayed initiative in organising pumping units and in making the utmost use of the little water available. 



George John TAGG, Temporary Acting Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. (Supplement to the L.G 35125. 1 st April 1941, pp 

1947.) 

At a series of large fires, on ground unfamiliar to him, Sub-Officer Tagg managed to arrange for an alternative supply of water 

when mains were fractured. The untried Auxiliary Firemen under his command were rallied by his encouragement and brave 

example. There is no doubt that but for Tagg's tremendous energy, bravery, and initiative, a large area of valuable property would 

have been destroyed. 

48


Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence. (Supplement to the L/G. 35125, 4 th April 

1941, pp. 1947.) 

Willie ALLSOP, Sub Officer, Finchley Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Douglas Walter BAKER, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

John William DEVENPORT, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Leonard Walter DIXON, Section Officer, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Albert Alexanda EDMONSTON, Auxiliary Fireman, Coventry Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Cecil Walter HENNEY, Leading Fireman, Coventry Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Harold Bernard HOPE, Leading Fireman, Coventry Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Alfred James PENN, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Arthur John PROBERT,, Deputy Chief Officer, Coventry Fire Brigade. 

Lawrence Allen Wardle ROBINSON, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Stanley Robert SMITH, Leading Fireman, Finchley Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Stanley Noel SOLE, Auxiliary Fireman, Finchley Auxiliary Fire Service. 

John Amos USHER, Auxiliary Fireman, Finchley Auxiliary Fire Service. 

George Henry WESTON, Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

William WILD, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the undermentioned awards of the Medal of the Most Excellent Order 

of the British Empire, and for the publication in the London Gazette of the names of the persons specially shown below as 

having received an expression conduct. of Commendation for their, brave conduct. 


(Supplement to the L/G. 35125, 4 th April 1941, pp. 1949.) 

Harry Robert BIDEWELL, Senior A.R.P. Warden, 

Edwin Freer RICHARDSON, Fireman, Goole Fire Brigade. 

For gallant conduct when attempting to rescue the occupants of aircraft which crashed and caught fire. These men faced the 

danger of exploding bombs and ammunition with complete disregard of their personal safety. 

Awarded the George Medal:— (Supplement to the L/G 35132, 11 th April 1941, pp. 2086.) 

Robert George VANDEHOEK, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

A high explosive bomb was dropped through the roof of a building which was in use as a station by the fire service. Without any 

hesitation Auxiliary Fireman Vandehoek removed the bomb from the main hall to the grounds and covered it with bags of sand. It 

subsequently exploded with only slight damage to the station. His heroic action undoubtedly saved many lives and much damage 

to property. 

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for Meritorious Service: — 

(Supplement to the L/G 35132, 11 th April 1941, pp. 2086.) 

John Edward BENN, Sub-Officer, Stretford and Urmston Joint Fire Brigade. 

Sub-Officer Benn displayed courage and coolness in dealing with a very serious situation when H.E. bombs caused casualties to 

firemen and civilians. He gave first-aid treatment and applied tourniquets to three badly wounded persons. 

The Sub-Officer then went on foot, through intense bombardment, to other fires. He showed presence of mind and devotion to 

duty in extremely dangerous conditions. 

Awarded the Medal of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for Meritorious Service: —— 

(Supplement to the L/G 35132, 11 th April 1941, pp. 2087.) 

Ethel Betty MARTIN, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Margaret Mary HAY, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During a heavy enemy air attack an Auxiliary Fire Station was set on fire and severely damaged. Auxiliaries Martin and Hay were 

on duty as telephonists and remained at their posts until the watchroom became untenable. On their own initiative, they vacated 

the station and established communications at a telephone kiosk in a neighbouring street. 

Auxiliary Martin also voluntarily acted as messenger between the kiosk and the officer in charge of the fire. These auxiliaries 

showed pluck and great devotion to duty in circumstances of grave danger. 


Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence: — (Supplement to the L/G 35132,) 11 th 

April 1941, pp. 2087. 

Cyril BOOTH, Messenger, Stretford Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Eric HEYS, Messenger, Stretford Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Fred HILTON, Fireman, Stretford and Urmston Joint Fire Brigade. 

William HULME, Fireman, Stretford and Urmston Joint Fire Brigade. 

Sidney Tower HUNWICKS, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Frederick Edward Christopher MEEKS, Leading Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

John William PULLIN, District Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

49

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):—( Supplement to the L/G 35143, Friday, 25 th April 1941, pp 2342.) 

Charles Reginald RUSSELL, Acting Divisional Officer, Portsmouth Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Acting Divisional Officer Russell was in charge of an Auxiliary Fire Station which was wrecked by a high explosive bomb. He 

was buried beneath the debris. Two members of his staff were killed and others injured. Mr. Russell assisted in extricating the 

injured persons in spite of his own injuries. He remained on duty during the next forty eight hours and it was largely due to his 

ability and example that such splendid team work was displayed by the officers and men of his division. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 35143, Friday, 25 th April 1941, pp. 2342.) 

Gerald Frederick WHEELER, Auxiliary Fireman Portsmouth Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During an air raid Wheeler was severely wounded in the left leg and was advised to report to the First Aid Party for immediate 

treatment and removal to hospital. He did not do this, however, but carried on with his duties on the mobile dam, although it was 

obvious that he was in great pain. He removed two. mobile dams from alongside blazing premises at some personal risk, as the 

buildings were in a state of collapse. A block of three-storey buildings was on fire and Wheeler continued to relay water to this 

site for two and a half hours. He then collapsed. But for his brave efforts many valuable buildings would have been destroyed. 

COMMENDATIONS;-(Supplement to the L/G. 35143, Friday 25 th April 1941. pp. 2342/3.) 


Fred EMERSON, Leading Fireman, Salford Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to the L/G, 35149, 29 th April 1941, pp. 2488.) 

John CORNFORD, Temporary Acting Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Arthur Ronald THORN, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

High warehouses abutting on the pavement on both sides of a street were well alight and the fire was sweeping across the sixty 

foot wide roadway. A man staggered out of one of the burning buildings and collapsed. Station Officer Thorn and Sub-Officer 

Cornford immediately ran through heat and flame, with debris falling all about them, and brought the man clear of the area. Thorn 

and Cornford acted promptly and at great risk to their lives to effect this gallant rescue. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to the L/G, 35149, 29 th April 1941, pp. 2488.) 

Arthur Hugh GRANT, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. (Award dated 12 th November, 1940. Auxiliary 

Fireman Grant has since been killed on duty by enemy action.) 

A high explosive bomb was dropped through the roof of a building which was in use as a station by the fire service. Without any 

hesitation Auxiliary Fireman Grant removed the bomb from the main hall to the area, and covered it with bags of sand. It 

subsequently exploded with only slight damage to the station. His heroic action undoubtedly saved many lives and much damage 

to property. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):—(Supplement to the L/G, 35149, 29 th April 1941, pp. 2489.) 

Patricia BAXTER, Telephonist. Portsmouth Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Hazel TAYLOR, Telephone Operator. Portsmouth Auxiliary Fire Service. 

May Georgina WHITCHER, Telephone Operator. Portsmouth Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Buildings adjoining an Auxiliary Fire Service Station were on fire and the office equipment was brought down by blast. In these 

conditions the three telephonists carried on their duties in a cool and efficient manner until eventually a direct hit was received on 

the station and they were buried under the debris. 

Gas was escaping but Miss Baxter managed to crawl to the tap and turn it off, thus saving other personnel, who were trapped and 

injured, from being gassed. She then went to the assistance of Miss Whitcher who had received a head injury and was trapped by 

fallen timber. By this time the roof of the building was alight. In spite of this the three girls, ignoring their own safety, helped to 

remove two lorries and to rescue a mobile dam which would otherwise have been destroyed. They helped to demolish the 

sandbagged buttress to the premises, using the sand to put out incendiary bombs. 

Refusing to rest, the three girls then went to Headquarters and worked in the Canteen for the rest of the night. 


Frank Sidney HOWE, Auxiliary Fireman, Portsmouth Auxiliary Fire Service. 

When incendiary bombs fell on the roof of a church Howe climbed up to work the stirrup pumps. Whilst there many bombs, both 

high explosive and incendiary, were dropped nearby. Howe carried on with his duty until a bomb fell into the church and 

exploded, blowing him off the ladder. He displayed considerable courage and devotion to duty and did not cease work until 

severely wounded. 


John Mylroie KELLY, Second Officer, Stretford and Urmston Joint Fire Brigade. 

Francis MEES, Third Officer, Stretford and Urmston Joint Fire Brigade. 

Both these officers were in constant attendance throughout heavy enemy attacks. Each officer was in charge of a separate sector 

where many fires were raging and their undaunted courage and leadership were an inspiration to the men under their control. 

Much valuable property was saved through their individual efforts. 

50


Ernest Cuthbert WILSON, Fireman, Works Fire Service, Portsmouth. 

Incendiary bombs penetrated the glass roof of a factory and started fires in various parts of the shop. At the same time a fire was 

started in an adjoining shed and on a derelict barge. Some houses were also set alight. 

A fire party, under Mr. Wilson's supervision, immediately tackled the various fires. To reach the fire in the derelict barge the party 

had to wade through deep mud while H.E. bombs fell close at hand. Mr. Wilson showed great gallantry, resource and efficiency 

in extremely difficult and dangerous conditions. 


Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence: — (Supplement to the L/G, 35149, 29 th 

April 1941, pp. 2491.) 

Cecil John BARKER, Auxiliary Fireman, Portsmouth Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Frederick Harold BASTICK, Fireman, Ramsgate Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Frank CARNELL, Fireman, Honiton Fire Brigade. 

Margaret Rose HAMER, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Grace JESSUP, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Hermann Frederick KUBSCH, Leading Fireman, Croydon Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Margaret MILLER, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Kathleen Emmeline SMITH, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Supplement to the L/G. 35156, 9 th May 1941, pp. 2642.) 

John Llywelyn JONES, Member of Departmental Fire Squad (Inspector of Taxes), Board of Inland Revenue, Great Yarmouth. 

During an air raid incendiary bombs were dropped on premises adjoining those where Mr. Jones was acting as fire watcher. He 

climbed out of a top floor window and after about half an hour he extinguished the fire. During this time the raid was in progress 

and planes were overhead. Mr. Jones took a very considerable risk in climbing to the roof and his promptness, courage and 

efficiency saved the building from severe damage. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Supplement to the L/G 35156, 9 th May 1941, pp. 2642/3.) 


Dorothy May BUNTING, Section Officer, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Frederick JEINS, Fireman, Penybont Fire Brigade. 

Daisy Irene SWINGLER, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Hubert TAYLOR, J.P., Auxiliary Fireman, Penybont Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):—( Supplement to the L/G 35162, 16 th May 1941, pp. 2780.) 

Brooke ADIE, Works Fire Brigade Commander, Birmingham. 

When a works was set on fire by bombs, Mr. Adie, although partially stunned by the explosions, crawled over the rooftops with 

his men and within a short time had two jets .playing on the flames. They fought the blaze for over an hour until the City Fire 

Brigade arrived. It was then discovered that electric current supply mains and transformers were alive. Mr. Adie, at great 

personal risk, immediately rushed into the basement of the burning building and cut off the supply. Mr. Adie showed courage and 

leadership and saved much valuable material. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 35162, 16 th May 1941, pp. 2781.) 

Edward William SANDERSON, Auxiliary Fireman, Grimsby Auxiliary Fire Service. 

High explosive bombs demolished houses and people were trapped. Cries could be heard coming from one house and Sanderson 

climbed on top of the debris and removed bricks until the bedroom ceiling was reached. This was lifted and Sanderson lowered 

himself into the space and brought out two casualties. Sanderson then started tunnelling and eventually three people were rescued. 

For three hours he was under the debris, which seemed likely to collapse at any moment. 

COMMENDATIONS.:— 

Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence: —(Supplement to the L/G 35162, 16 th May 

1941, pp 2781/ 2.) 

Richard Victor AKHURST, Auxiliary Fireman, Coventry Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Arnold George KYRKE, Leading Fireman, Coventry Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Frederick Richard METHERELL, Member of Departmental Fire Squad (Messenger), Patent Office, Board of Trade. 

Charles Oliver SHEFFIELD, Patrol Officer, Coventry Auxiliary Fire Service 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):—(Supplement to the L/G 35169, 23 rd May 1941, pp. 2935.) 

Ernest Gordon FOSTER, Auxiliary Fireman, Bath Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Mr. Foster, with reinforcing crews, has attended the most seriously damaged areas in various parts of the country. He is an 

excellent and courageous driver and on numerous occasions he has driven through the affected parts of a town regardless of any 

danger with the complete convoy following him. Foster, by his devotion to duty, has set a fine example. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 35169, 23 rd May 1941, pp. 2935). 

William FRANCE, Sergeant, Manchester Fire Brigade. 

51

Sergeant France did excellent work during an air attack on Manchester. He assisted in organising the machines and personnel, and 

showed considerable skill in creating a successful relay of water around the involved area. There were vast heaps of burning debris 

to be overcome and no proper roadways for the machines to negotiate. 

Later, Sergeant France was in charge of units at a large fire and it was due to his efforts that much valuable property was saved. 


Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence: —(Supplement to the L/G 35169, 23 rd May 

1941, pp. 2935.) 

Herbert Edward DUNSTAN, Member, Wholesale Co-operative Society Fire Brigade, Cardiff. 

Charles William McCARTHY, Member, Reuters and Press Association Fire Fighting Squad, London. 

George PARKER, Assistant Commandant, Hull Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Christopher Jack PICKEN, Member, Co-operative Wholesale Society Fire Brigade, Cardiff. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Supplement to the L/G 35174, 30 th May 1941, pp 3067.) 

Henry COOKE, Deputy Superintendent (Award dated 3 rd May, 1941. Deputy Superintendent Cooke has since been killed by 

enemy action when on duty Liverpool Salvage Corps). 

Harry COOPER, Deputy Superintendent, 

On a number of occasions Deputy Superintendent Cooke was in charge of Salvage Corps fire-fighting detachments engaged at 

serious fires, whilst bombing was taking place, and, on one occasion, under machine-gun fire. He showed fine qualities of 

leadership and, with complete disregard of his personal safety led operations which undoubtedly saved several fires from getting 

out of control. 

Deputy Superintendent Cooper has been instrumental in preventing immense damage to vital commodities. In addition he has 

been on several occasions in charge of Salvage Corps fire-fighting detachments at serious fires in large premises. Cooper's 

devotion to duty and leadership have been outstanding. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Supplement to the L/G 35174, 30 th May 1941, pp. 3068.) 

William SMITH, Inspector, Manchester Fire Brigade. 

During enemy air attacks on Manchester, Inspector Smith was in charge of a major appliance at many fires. He planned his attack 

systematically and, despite the injuries he sustained, continued with his work and directed operations so thoroughly that he 

obtained the maximum effort from personnel and appliances. Throughout, Inspector Smith showed courage and devotion to duty. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Supplement to the L/G 35174, 30 th May 1941, pp. 3069.) 

Andrew WHYTE, Sergeant (temporary), Manchester Fire Brigade. 

During the enemy air attacks on Manchester Sergeant Whyte has been conspicuous for his gallant behaviour. 

On one occasion he helped to operate jets inside a warehouse until it became necessary, owing to tlje intense heat, to withdraw all 

personnel from the building. Whyte then climbed with his jets to the roof of an adjacent building and from there tackled the fire. 


Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence. (Supplement to the L/G 35174, 30 th May 

1941, pp. 3069.) 

William Eric BURGESS, Fireman, Manchester Fire Brigade. 

John George HODGSON, Salvageman, Liverpool Salvage Corps. 

Neil LEITCH (deceased), Boy Messenger, Glasgow Auxiliary Fire Service. 

John Herbert SUTTON, Auxiliary Fireman Driver, Penge Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Supplement to the L./G. 35180, 3 rd June 1941, pp. 3200). 

Robert Wood BERWICK, Auxiliary Fireman, East Ham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During an air raid, whilst engaged with a branch-pipe on the roof of a church, Berwick heard a cry for help. A man had fallen 

from the roof into a space approximately two feet wide and twenty feet deep, between the church and an adjoining building. 

Although the church was burning fiercely, Berwick procured a length of rope and, with help, climbed down to the casualty, 

secured him to the rope, and hauled him up. He then carried him along the roof to a ladder, down which the injured man was 

lowered. 

Berwick performed this gallant action at considerable risk to himself. 


Frederick Walter CHANTRELL, Leading Auxiliary Fireman, East Ham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Charles Robert BROOKS, Auxiliary Fireman, East Ham Liverpool Auxiliary Fire Service 

After fighting fires for several hours Chantrell received an order to get his crew away and leave the equipment, as all means of 

escape seemed to be barred by flames. Brooks volunteered to attempt to save the pumps and, with Chantrell in charge, the crew 

mounted in their position. Using mackintoshes and hose ramps to protect themselves from the heat and falling embers and despite 

fallen masonry and piles of debris which at some points barred the way, Brooks eventually succeeded in driving the pump and 

crew to safety. 


Alexander CONWAY, Auxiliary Fireman, Liverpool Auxiliary Fire Service. 

52

Edward HEYES, Auxiliary Fireman, Liverpool Auxiliary Fire Service. 

A high explosive bomb demolished two houses and people were trapped. Conway and Heyes clambered into the debris and while 

Heyes supported the collapsed floor with his back, Conway sawed away timber. They crawled through this opening and released 

five women and a small child. One woman was embedded up to the neck in debris and, to reach her, the rescuers had to cut their 

way through a floor which had been turned on end. The work was hampered throughout by an escape of gas from a fractured 

main. Bombs were dropped in the adjoining streets, the district was subjected to machine-gun, fire and the whole area was lit up 

by fires in the neighbourhood. Conway and Heyes showed great courage and resource. 


Vincent George EVANS, Third Officer, Wembley Fire Brigade. 

A bomb ignited a quantity of A.A. shells and cartridge cases on an Army lorry. Third Officer Evans directed operations for 

extinguishing the fire. By his coolness and devotion to duty he set an example to his men who remained at their posts, about 

fifteen yards from the lorry, although shells were exploding close to them, shrapnel was falling and there were enemy aircraft 

overhead. 


Harry HICKS, Police Sergeant, Portsmouth City Police Fire Brigade. 

At fires, resulting from enemy action, Sergeant Hicks has shown leadership and devotion to duty. 

Although H.E. bombs have dropped nearby and members of his crew have been killed and wounded, Hicks has continued his 

supervision of the work and has been instrumental in saving a considerable amount of property. 


William MAWDSLEY, Leading Fireman, Manchester Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Leading Fireman Mawdsley worked for three days, without rest, in charge of Manchester Auxiliary Fire Service Fire Floats. He 

piloted the Floats through canals, locks and burning debris on the river in blackout conditions and showed initiative, resource and 

coolness in the most trying conditions. 


Henry Edward SHAW, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Fireman Shaw was in charge of a substation on several occasions during enemy raids on London. His conduct was an inspiration 

to the men under his command and his untiring efforts were responsible for fires not getting out of hand. Fireman Shaw by his 

courage and initiative has set a splendid example. 


Arthur STOAKES, Auxiliary Fireman, Manchester Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Auxiliary Fireman Stoakes acted as a motor-cycle messenger for over four days with only three hours rest. During this period, 

amongst other duties, he carried messages when the telephone system failed, extinguished incendiary bombs. He distributed 

petrol by using a rope sling, carrying one tin on his chest and one on his back.. His action in delivering this petrol kept Units 

working until other means of transport were available. Stoake's conduct, at all times, has been courageous and efficient. 


Charles Henry THATCHER, Temporary Leading Fireman, Carshalton Auxiliary Fire Service. 

After fighting fires for several hours in the City of London it became necessary for Thatcher to transfer the operations of his crew 

as it appeared that all means of escape would soon be cut off. Whilst part of his crew held back the fire at one point, the remainder 

made up their equipment and prepared to leave. Driving through the flames they managed to make their escape into another street, 

only to find that it was a sheet of flame at both ends and seemingly impossible to traverse. 

As it was impossible to save the vehicle, Thatcher organised a salvage party and leading his men through an underground tunnel to 

safety was successful in saving much of the equipment. 


Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence: —(Supplement to the L/G.35180, 6 th June 

1941, pp. 3201/2.) 

John Brown CRAMMOND, Fireman, Wembley Fire Brigade. 

Frederick James DOWLER, Sub-Officer, Wembley Fire Brigade. 

Patrick MURPHY, Fireman, Wembley Fire Brigade. 

George NASH, Fireman, Wembley Fire Brigade. 

William Joseph SCOTT, Patrol Officer, Manchester Auxiliary Fire Service. 

William TUSLER, Fireman, Wembley Fire Brigade. 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: —(Supplement to the L/G. 

35188, 8 th June 1941, pp.3363.) 

James Frederick COLLINS, Chief Officer, Bootle Fire Brigade. 

During air raids on Merseyside, Chief Officer Collins has acted with courage and endurance. His leadership of the Fire Services 

has been outstanding and, by his efforts, much valuable property has been saved. 

53

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: (Supplement to the L/G. 

35188, 8 th June 1941, pp. 3363.) 

William Edward SWEET, Chief Officer, Ipswich Fire Brigade. 

Serious fires broke out during an enemy air attack and many buildings were endangered. Chief Officer Sweet dealt with the 

situation in an extremely efficient and courageous manner. 

Under his leadership the fire brigades worked magnificently until the fires were extinguished. 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire:—(Supplement to the L/G 

35200, 27 th June 1941, pp. 3645.) 

Alfred FRANCIS, Chief Officer, Tenby Fire Brigade Service. 

Horace Lloyd HOWARTH, Commandant, Milford Haven Fire Brigade Service. 

When a large fire, the result of enemy action, threatened a town, Commandant Howarth, surmounting great difficulties, 

successfully organised the relaying of water. He was joined by Chief Officer Francis whose practical experience combined with 

the initiative displayed by the Commandant greatly assisted the operations. Both officers led their men with courage and 

displayed devotion to duty and resource in dealing with a very dangerous situation. 

To be an Additional Member of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire:— (Supplement to the L/G 

35200, 27 th June 1941, pp. 3645.) 

John SMITH, Commandant, Dagenham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 35200, 27 th June 1941, pp. 3645.) 

Alfred Edward JONES, Deputy Commandant, Dagenham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During an air attack large fires were caused at a factory. Commandant Smith showed conspicuous leadership in organising the 

brigades to combat the fire and prevented its spread. He was ably assisted by Deputy Commandant Jones who organised water 

supplies and the placing of the crews, thereby saving valuable machinery and stock. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division). -(Supplement to the L/G 35200, 27 th June 1941, pp. 3648.) 

William George RAPP, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During an air raid incendiary bombs fell on laden lorries parked near a garage. Auxiliary Fireman Rapp, who was not on duty, 

drove three of the lorries out of the yard undamaged, but as he returned to remove others his task became increasingly dangerous 

as the fire by this tune had spread to the garage. The next lorry saved by Rapp was slightly damaged but the fifth and last to be 

brought out was alight and a jet had to be played on to the cabin to allow him to complete his task. Had Rapp not removed the 

five lorries, all the vehicles and the building would have been a total loss. Rapp displayed considerable courage and tenacity. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division). (Supplement to the L/G 35200, 27 th June 1941, pp. 3648.) 

Douglas SARGENT, Third Officer, Leicester Fire Brigade. 

Throughout an intensive air attack on Manchester, Third Officer Sargent showed great skill in fighting the resultant fires. He 

organised personnel and equipment and it is largely due to his gallant leadership that much valuable property was saved. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Supplement to the L/G 35200, 27 th June 1941, pp. 3648/9.) 


William BARROWMAN, Auxiliary Fireman, Dagenham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Stanley Guy CLARK Leading Fireman, Dagenham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Harold Charles COWIE, Third Officer, Dagenham Fire Brigade. 

Albert Edward ROSS, Fireman, Dagenham Fire Brigade. 

William Alfred SCHEUER (deceased), Works Fire Watcher, Woolwich 

Thomas SWAINE, Leader, Voluntary Street Fire Party, Greenwich. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the following awards: — 

The British Empire Medal (Civil Division). (Supplement to the L/G 35200, 27 th June 1941, pp. 3649.) 

Arthur Harry SPENCE, Chief Inspector, Northampton Fire Brigade. 

Kenneth CAMERON, Divisional Officer, Northampton Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Percy John BUTLER, Patrol Officer, Northampton Auxiliary Fire Service. 

An ammunition lorry caught fire. Divisional Officer Cameron and Patrol Officer Butler attacked the fire and were joined by Chief 

Inspector Spence who, so as not to endanger his men, took over the branch. Butler mounted the lorry and pulled the blazing 

tarpaulin sheet and camouflage material from the ammunition boxes which were then burning. Although these three Officers 

knew that the wagon contained ammunition they courageously attacked the outbreak and in a very short space of time subdued the 

fire and enabled the lorry to proceed. Their prompt action averted serious danger to life and property. 

To be an Additional Member of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire:—(Supplement to the L/G. 

35200, 27 th June 1941, pp. 3645.) 

27 th June, 1941. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to .give orders for the undermentioned appointments to the Most Excellent Order of the 

54

British Empire, for the following awards of the George Medal and of the British Empire Medal, arid for the publication in the 

London Gazette of the names of the persons specially shown below as having received an expression of Commendation for 

their brave conduct in Civil Defence. 

Awarded the George Medal:— (Second Supplement to the L/G 35210, 7 th July 1941. pp. 3894.) 

Thomas FLOOD, Auxiliary Fireman, Liverpool Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During an air raid a dwelling-house was wrecked. Flood tunnelled under the debris and, after working for an hour, heard a baby 

crying. He continued and found a child underneath a perambulator. He obtained food and fed her and, with difficulty, he 

eventually extricated her unharmed. Flood heard the cry of another child under the rubble and, after tunnelling seven feet and 

sawing through an iron cot, he was successful in rescuing a small boy. Whilst Flood was under the rubble releasing the children, 

heavy pieces of masonry and timber were continually falling making his task both dangerous and difficult. Flood was exhausted 

but refused to be detained in hospital. Although he was too weak to take any physical part he directed further operations, which 

resulted in two more children being found. Flood displayed great gallantry and determination in effecting these rescues. 

Awarded the George Medal:— (Second Supplement to the L/G 35210, 7 th July 1941. pp. 3894.) 

Alexander HERON, Firemaster, Works Fire Fighting Service, Clydebank. 

During an air raid incendiary bombs fell on a factory and fires were started. Firemaster Heron extinguished a large number of 

incendiary bombs, handling them on many occasions with his bare hands. He led the fire fighters into a burning wood yard, while 

other firemen continually played water on them to prevent serious injury from burning. Afterwards he attacked the fire in the 

building and made every possible effort to extinguish the flames. 

Heron showed great courage and was on continuous duty, without rest, for 100 hours. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) :—(Second Supplement to the L/G 35210, 7 th July 1941. pp. 3896.) 

Paul CATTERALL, Acting Sub-Officer, Bolton Fire Brigade. 

Sub-Officer Catterall was in charge of a contingent of men sent to a town to deal with fires, the result of enemy action. Under his 

leadership the crews remained steadfastly at their posts of duty in spite of the fact that large numbers of incendiary and high 

explosive bombs were showered around them. He displayed calm courage and devotion to duty in exceptionally dangerous and 

harassing circumstances, and showed keen interest in the welfare of the men in his charge, giving first aid and arranging for the 

despatch of the injured to hospital. 


Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence: — (Second Supplement to the L/G 35210, 

7 th July 1941. pp. 3897/8.) 

Joseph ATKINSON, Fireman, Works Fire Firefighting Service, Clydebank. 

Walter Edwin DAVIES, Chief Officer Ystradgynlais Fire Brigade. 

Stanley EMMASON, Auxiliary Fireman, Bolton Auxiliary Fire Service. 

James Edmund HAYES, Leader, Works Fire Fighting Squad, The Liverpool Gas Company. 

Edwin Aspinall HITCHON, (deceased), Auxiliary Fireman, Bolton Auxiliary Fire Service. 

George Howard HUGHES, Section Officer, Swansea. Auxiliary Fire Service. 

George LONGMATE, Auxiliary Fireman, Bolton Auxiliary Fire Service. 

John McLEAN, Fireman, Works Fire Fighting Service, Clydebank. 

James MEIKLETON, Fireman, Works Fire Fighting Service, Clydebank. 

James WEBB, Fireman, Works Fire Fighting Coventry Service, Clydebank. 

Samuel WILLIAMS, Auxiliary Fireman, Swansea Auxiliary Fire Service. 


35220, Friday 18 th July 1941, pp. 4105. ) 

William Charles TEW, Officer in Charge, Admiralty Outstation. 

Fred GOODRICH, Chief Fire Officer, Admiralty Outstation. 

William Bell MUIR, Firemaster, Dunfermline Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the George Medal:— (Supplement to the L/G 35220, Friday 18 th July 1941, pp. 4105.) 

Harry KEER, Auxiliary Fireman, Dunfermline Auxiliary Fire Service. 

David TERVIT, Fireman, Dunferrnline Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal. (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 35220, Friday 18 th July 1941, pp. 4105.) 

William Fleming CRICHTON, Section Officer, West Lothian Auxiliary Fire Service. 

William CUTHBERT, Chargeman of Firefighting Exercises and Appliances, Admiralty Outstation.. 

Graeme HARDIE, Divisional Officer, Dunbartonshire Auxiliary Fire Service. 

When incendiary bombs fell on an Oil Fuel Depot Mr. Tew immediately took charge and the fires which had broken out were 

quickly extinguished. An attack with H.E. bombs followed a few minutes later and started fires in the oil tanks. Mr. Tew worked 

without a break through four days and nights and handled a very grave and difficult situation with resource and courage. 

Mr. Goodrich directed operations with coolness and his leadership and experience did much to help the auxiliary firemen, many of 

whom were at their first fire. 

55

Firemaster Muir waded through oil and mounted a vertical steel ladder on to the top of a burning tank in order to have a clear 

picture of the situation. He organised the necessary measures for extinguishing this fire and showed leadership, energy and 

resolution throughout the attack. 

Auxiliary Fireman Kerr displayed outstanding bravery. Standing waist deep in oil he played his jet on to the burning tanks at 

close range and repeatedly drove back the flames. Fireman Tervit displayed great coolness and bravery. He manipulated a jet to 

keep flaming oil from being driven round a tank while two other jets were played on him to counteract the intense heat. During 

this operation the water was shut off but Tervit stood firm until it was restored and then waded through oil and extinguished the 

flames. 

Mr. Cuthbert acted as assistant to Mr. Tew. He worked pumps, acted as fireman and generally helped wherever he was wanted. 

He showed great energy and resource. 

Divisional Officer Hardie showed great devotion to duty. He despatched units to the various outbreaks of fire in the district and 

went on foot through the height of the raid to the Depot to arrange for reinforcements. His calmness set an example to the men 

under his direction. 

Section Officer Crichton showed initiative in maintaining water supply in relay system and in organising petrol supplies and 

reliefs. He was in charge of a small party and frequently at considerable personal risk drove back the fires single-handed. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal. (Supplement to the L/G 35220, 18 th July 1941. pp. 4106/7.) 

Arthur Diamond BOYD, Temporary Sergeant,. Liverpool Fire Brigade Service. 

A serious fire was caused by enemy action. Sergeant Boyd, who was in charge of a party of firemen, climbed to the apex of the 

roof of an adjoining building and from there directed operations. In spite of his precarious position and the danger of naptha tanks 

exploding , of which he was fully aware, the Sergeant remained on the roof until the fire was under control and the building and its 

contents saved. On two other occasions during air raids Temporary Sergeant Boyd has, by his promptitude and courage, been 

responsible for preventing serious fires. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Supplement to the L/G 35220, 18 th July 1941. pp.4407.) 


Charles BAKER, Member, Sector Fire Party, Birmingham. 

George BLAIR, Section Officer, Dunfermline Auxiliary Fire Service. 

William CALDWELL, Patrol Officer, Dunfermline Auxiliary Fire Service. 

George COWLING, Leading Fireman Driver, Stretford and Urmston Auxiliary Fire Service. 

John HALLAS, Auxiliary Fireman, Stretford and Urmston Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Eric James SPAVIN, Auxiliary Fireman, Stretford and Urmston Auxiliary Fire Service. 

David Leslie WHITSIDE, Patrol Officer, Stretford and Urmston Auxiliary Fire Service. 


35226, 25 th July 1941. pp. 4251.) 

Richard George ANDREWS, Chief Officer, Tavistock Fire Brigade. 

During an air raid the Tavistock Fire Brigade, under the command of Chief Officer Andrews, was sent to Plymouth, where several 

large shops were on fire. Andrews worked lines of hose on to the roof of adjacent property to prevent the spread of a fire. The 

heat was intense, but he continued to explore and led his crew to advantageous positions. 

Andrews and his crew remained at their post continuously for nine hours, in conditions of great danger. The Chief Officer showed 

great determination and perseverance and set a fine example to his men by his cheerful demeanour and disregard of personal 

safety. He succeeded in preventing the flames spreading and remained at his post until the fire was extinguished. 


35226, 25 th July 1941. pp. 4251/2.) 

Henry George DAVIES, Superintendent, London Fire Brigade. 

When a serious fire, started by enemy action, threatened to involve an important building, Superintendent Davies took charge of 

the area. Very little water was available, apart from that contained in a battery of dams but by judicial use of this he succeeded in 

retarding the spread of the fires. He organised a convoy of mobile dam lorries and by energetic perseverance, he managed to 

prevent the premises becoming involved. Although suffering severely from injury to his eyes, Davies continued to take charge 

until late in the following morning, at which time his eyes had become so swollen that it was difficult for him to see. It was due to 

his leadership, initiative and courage that the buildings were saved and the fire held. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 35226, 25 th July 1941. pp. 4253/4.) 

Albert Ernest BILLS, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Station Officer Bills was in charge of a fire in the City area during an air raid. He maintained communications and organized 

water supplies in spite of great difficulties. The fires in his area became so serious that, with half his men practically smoke-blind, 

he decided upon the very difficult task of evacuating them and the appliances to safety. Then he thoroughly searched all 

surrounding streets to ensure that everyone had left the area, being himself the last one to leave. Station Officer Bills set a 

splendid example to the men by his coolness, energy and courage. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 35226, 25 th July 1941. pp. 4254). 

Harry Reginald HORNE, Chief Engineer, Okehampton Fire Brigade. 

56

During an air attack on Plymouth the tower of a high building caught fire and there was danger of the fire spreading. The water 

mains were damaged and Home placed his pump at a crater in front of the building, ran his hose up to the top floor, entered the 

roof space below the tower with a ladder, and extinguished the fire. There was a danger of the lower part of the premises catching 

alight, in which event Home's escape would have been cut off. 

Home was instrumental in saving the building and by his initiative, devotion to duty and total disregard of personal safety, set a 

fine example to the men under his control. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 35226, 25 th July 1941. pp. 4254.) 

Reginald William La FOSSE, Watchroom Attendant, London Fire Brigade. 

During an air raid it was necessary to supply appliances working at fires with additional petrol. La Fosse, acting entirely on his 

own initiative, obtained a staff car, loaded it with cans of petrol and drove round the district distributing it where required. He 

carried on with this arduous work, which was not part of his normal duty, regardless of danger from falling debris, until the next 

morning. But for the initiative and courage shown by La Fosse some of the appliances would have ceased to function, with the 

possibility of the fires getting out of control. 


Alicia PERRIS, Section Officer, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Section Officer Perris was on duty in the watchroom of an A.F.S. station which was set on fire during an air raid. She was ordered 

to evacuate the building but notwithstanding the danger of the situation, made certain, before leaving, that as many important 

records as possible were taken to safety. 

She took over watchroom duties at another Station until it again became necessary to evacuate. Section Officer Perris maintained 

her courage and composure and gave most able assistance in establishing control, and taking over watchroom duties. Throughout 

the raid Section Officer Perris showed great devotion to duty, disregard of danger, and fine qualities of leadership. 


David READING, District Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

During an air raid District Officer Reading took charge of an area of intense fire comprising a number of City streets. In the face 

of great danger he made his way from street to street, safeguarding the lives of his crews and withdrawing appliances when 

excessive danger made this step imperative. 

When the fires were at their height it was reported to him that two employees of a firm were still at their posts. With great 

difficulty Mr. Reading succeeded in reaching them and helped them to make their way out when most exits were cut off by fire 

and the whole building smoke logged. Mr. Reading suffered acutely owing to the painful condition of his eyes through the intense 

heat and smoke but in spite of this his direction enabled the crews to save a large building from total destruction. 


Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence: — (Supplement to the L/G 35226, 25 th July 

1941. pp. 4256.) 

Herbert DOLBY, Leader, Works Fire Fighting Squad, Stratford. 

Ellen Sophia NIGHTINGALE, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

To be an Additional Member of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: —( Supplement to the L/G 

35233, 1 st August 1941. pp. 4416.) 

Willoughby Merwyn Hammett DRAKE, Chief Officer, Stourport-upon-Severn Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): — (Supplement to the L/G 35233, 1 st August 1941. pp. 4416.) 

William Thomas HILL, Inspector, Plymouth Police Fire Brigade. 

During an air raid a number of fires broke out. Inspector Hill at once began firefighting operations and was later joined by Chief 

Officer Drake of Stourport Fire Brigade in charge of several appliances and crews. Although at one time a large area was 

threatened by fire, these two Officers, by their masterly handling of the situation, prevented the fires from spreading and their 

courageous and persistent efforts resulted in much valuable property being saved. Chief Officer Drake and Inspector Hill showed 

courage and steadiness in. very dangerous conditions and set a splendid example to their men. 

Awarded the George Medal: — (Supplement to the L/G 35233, 1 st August 1941. pp. 4416/7.) 

Geoffrey Vaughan BLACKSTONE, Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade*. 

Sydney Herbert BOULTER, Temporary Acting Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

A high explosive bomb demolished a building leaving one wall in a tottering condition. Five members of- the Fire Service were 

on beds on the ground floor of the building and were entombed under the debris which was supported by iron girders inclined 

against the damaged wall. Bombs were falling in the district at the time and the blast made the wall sway dangerously. Mr. 

Blackstone, fully realizing the extreme danger of the wall falling, began to burrow into the debris. He worked continuously with 

his bare hands for about four hours in darkness and foul atmosphere and released three of the victims. In order to extricate them, 

he had to take the weight of a girder on his shoulders while passing debris back between his legs. 

Mr. Blackstone displayed conspicuous courage and suffered considerably from the effects of the gas and bad atmosphere in which 

he had been working. The tottering wall fell soon after the rescues had been effected. 

Sub-Officer Boulter, although wet through and exhausted after, seven hours strenuous fire-fighting, also assisted in the rescue of 

two of those trapped who were on the side of the ground floor away from the dangerous wall. He tunnelled downwards and, held 

57

y his feet, wriggled down vertically through the debris to a man who was pinned under a steel girder and covered in masonry. 

After three hours hard work in darkness and a gas-fouled atmosphere he released the man and brought him out alive. After this 

rescue Boulter assisted the other party until the last victim was recovered . Boulter displayed endurance and great courage in the 

face of extreme danger. 

* Later, post war, Chief Fire Officer, Hertfordshire Fire Brigade. Author of ―A History of the British Fire Service‖ 

Awarded the George Medal: — (Supplement to the L/G 35233, 1 st August 1941. pp. 4417.) 

Albert William CLARKE, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

A H.E. bomb demolished a dwelling house and a woman was trapped. Auxiliary Fireman Clarke, who was not on duty, entered the 

wreckage and found the victim but was himself trapped by falling debris. Although there was a strong concentration of coal gas, 

Clarke managed to direct the operations of the rescue party outside and a saw was passed to him with which he was able to cut 

away parts of the staircase and so release the woman. 

The rescue operations lasted for two hours during which bombs continued to fall nearby and the remainder of the building was 

likely to collapse. Auxiliary Fireman Clarke showed great courage and initiative and by his direction the life of the woman was 

saved. 


Charles William HILL, Sub-Officer, Hendon Fire Brigade. 

Edward William Robert MORGAN, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

During a heavy air raid on London two persons were trapped in the basement of a building that was alight from ground to top 

floor. Station Officer Morgan and Sub-Officer Hill entered the building by the ground floor passage but were unable to advance 

owing to the terrific heat. The Officers then broke the pavement light and by this means entered the basement. Although the heat 

and smoke were intense Morgan and Hill brought the two trapped persons to a position in the front part of the basement from 

which they were hauled up to the street. 

Sub-Officer Hill was then helped out and finally Station Officer Morgan, who was considerably affected by-the smoke and in a 

very exhausted condition, was assisted up to the ground level by means of a line. During the time that the rescue was being 

effected the rear part of the building collapsed. Both Morgan and Hill showed utter disregard of danger and displayed 

conspicuous courage and fortitude. 


Jack HURRELL, Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

A high explosive bomb severely damaged the basement of a factory, in which people were sheltering, and burst a large water 

main. Sub-Officer Hurrell detailed certain of his crew to attend to the fires which had broken out and set two trailer pumps into 

the crater in an attempt to arrest the inrush of water, so that efforts could be made to rescue the imprisoned persons. By this time 

the basement had filled with water to within about two feet of the ceiling but notwithstanding the extreme danger to himself, Sub- 

Officer Hurrell entered the basement, which was in darkness, and crawled from bunk to bunk to ensure that no casualties 

remained. Hurrell exhibited coolness, initiative and courage in very distressing and dangerous conditions. 


Alexander Hodge NISBET, Firemaster, Coatbridge Fire Brigade. (Coatbridge, Scotland nr. Glasgow. ‗Firemaster‘, was the 

Scottish title for Chief Fire Officer. It appears to have been ‗anglicized‘ to C.F.O. early in the 21 st century, and perhaps because 

it is not a gender neutral title,‘Firemaster‘ is no longer used,). 

Firemaster Nisbet was temporarily attached to the London Fire Service for practical experience of fires under air raid conditions 

and attended many during heavy and intensive bombing. 

At one fire three auxiliary firemen were trapped on the first floor of a burning building. The intense heat and acrid fumes from 

burning cable made it almost impossible to approach the building. A short ladder was procured but as the buildings were 

surrounded by barrels and cable reels, no firm base could be established on which to rest it. As a last resort the ladder was 

balanced and held by two fire brigade officers. Mr. Nisbet, without the slightest hesitation, ascended to the top of the ladder, 

which fell short of the first floor window but, by securing a hold on surrounding piping, Mr. Nisbet managed to scramble into the 

room. Then by placing himself in a very precarious position on a ledge, he helped the three trapped men to descend, following 

down when the last man was safe. If it had not been for the very courageous act of Mr. Nisbet, the men would certainly have lost 

their lives. Although cut, bruised and suffering from exhaustion, Mr. Nisbet, after a very short rest, helped to fight other fires in 

the neighbourhood and his coolness, leadership and courage were an inspiration to the men under his command. 


Elymer ANKERS, Sergeant, Liverpool Fire Brigade. 

When bombs fell on a railway siding an ammunition train caught fire and the contents of the railway trucks exploded. The Fire 

Brigade arrived and Sergeant Ankers at once took charge of the fire righting and rescue work. 

In attempting to control the fires and remove the ammunition train from the area, he showed a complete disregard of his own 

safety and acted with courage and resource. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): — (Supplement to the L/G 35233, 1 st August 1941. pp. 4419). 

Willem De MONT, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Harold Stanley INGHAM, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Dugald MacGregor MacCOLL, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

58

John, Alfred Terrence MacDONAGH, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

A H.E. bomb caused severe damage to a house and as a result two girls were trapped on the fifth floor. The four Auxiliary 

Firemen reached the room by way of severely damaged adjoining roofs and rescued the girls through a hole cut in the roof. The 

firemen then carried them across the neighbouring roofs and down through another house. This rescue was extremely hazardous 

owing to the collapse of the interiors of the buildings, and the four men displayed courage and resource in effecting it. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —( Supplement to the L/G 35233, 1 st August 1941. pp. 4420.) 

Alfred George GIBBS, Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Alfred James LAYTE, Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

During an air raid a building was damaged, all the staircases were destroyed and fires broke out. A woman was trapped in a back 

room on the third floor. The room adjoining and the floor above were alight. Sub Officer Layte first attempted to ascend by the 

aid of a hook ladder but, owing to the overhanging coping and debris, was unable to climb on to the projecting roof. 

Layte and Gibbs then got on to the top of a service lift and were hoisted up to the roof by members of the crew. Layte brought out 

the woman and carried her along the roof. Assisted by Gibbs, he managed, with the woman on his back, to get on to the top of the 

lift and the two were lowered to the ground. It was due to the courage displayed by these two Officers that the woman was saved. 


Joseph GOLDSON, Patrol Officer, Liverpool Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Throughout enemy air attacks Patrol Officer Goldson has displayed outstanding leadership and resource. 

On one occasion he made rapid arrangements for relaying water from the Docks and, by the placing of his appliances, undoubtedly 

prevented a fire spreading to the adjoining buildings. Unexploded time bombs nearby in no way deterred him and in order to 

satisfy himself as to the safety of his men, he constantly exposed himself to considerable danger from falling debris. 


Bridget Gibson HARRIS, Auxiliary, Women's Auxiliary Fire Service, London. 

During an air raid a H.E. bomb fell within twenty yards of Auxiliary Harris and demolished a house in which fires broke out. In 

spite of the shaking she had received, Harris immediately began to clear away debris in an effort to reach people trapped in the 

basement. By the time further help arrived she had made substantial progress and she continued the work for over an hour, during 

which time more bombs were dropped nearby and there was constant danger from falling masonry. 

During that night, Auxiliary Harris helped to lay out many lengths of hose and on one occasion manned a branch. She displayed a 

high standard of courage and devotion to duty, and worked with tireless energy throughout the night, carrying out duties to which 

she was not normally assigned. 


Joan Winifred HOBSON, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During an air raid, a fire was reported but no appliances were available. Auxiliary Hobson, on her own initiative, took lengths of 

hose, a short ladder and equipment, and, commandeering a car, attended the fire with two auxiliary firemen. She fought the flames 

from the roof opposite for three and a half hours and succeeded in checking the outbreak, thereby saving the lower rooms and the 

surrounding buildings. During the time that Auxiliary Hobson was at work, bombs fell nearby. She showed remarkable initiative 

and courage throughout the incident. 


John Edmund JONES, Auxiliary Fireman, Liverpool Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During enemy air attacks on Liverpool, Auxiliary Fireman Jones has acted with coolness and courage. 

On one occasion, although he was suffering from an eye injury and the effects of blast from a nearby explosion, Jones took up a 

very dangerous position in order to prevent a fire from reaching an air raid shelter. He maintained his position despite the 

knowledge that an unexploded time bomb was only a few feet away from him and that he was in danger of being trapped by fire. 

His coolness set an example to the people in the shelter and gave them confidence. He showed great courage and devotion to 

duty. 


Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence. (Supplement to the L/G 35233, 1 st August 

1941, pp. 4422/3.) 

Ivy Louise ASHWELL, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Leo BROADBRIDGE Messenger, Liverpool Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Winifred BROCK, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Stanley CHALLIS, Auxiliary Fireman, Bootle Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Richard John Holt GILLMAN, Section Officer, Basingstoke Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Ivy Winifred SPEARS, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Ivy Angel TROOD, Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Philip Henry WILLIAMS, Auxiliary Messenger, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to award the GEORGE CROSS to:- (Supplement to the L/G 35239, 8 th August 1941, pp. 

4545.) 

Harry ERRINGTON, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

59

High explosive and incendiary bombs demolished a building. Errington and two other Auxiliary Firemen were the only occupants 

of the basement of the building at the .time of the explosion. The blast blew Errington across the basement, but although dazed 

and injured he made his .way to the other two Auxiliaries, whom he found to be pinned down, flat on their backs, by debris. A 

fierce, fire broke out and the trapped men were in imminent danger of being burnt to death. The heat of the fire was so intense that 

Errington had to protect himself with a blanket. After working with his bare hands for some minutes he managed to release the 

injured men and dragged them from under the wreckage and away from the fire. While he was so engaged, burning debris was 

falling into the basement and there was considerable danger of a further collapse of the building. He carried one of the men up a 

narrow stone staircase partially choked with debris, into the courtyard, made his way through an adjoining building and thence 

into the street. 

Despite the appalling conditions and although burned and injured, Errington returned and brought out the second man. Both 

Errington‟s comrades were severely burned but survived. He showed great bravery and endurance in effecting the rescues, at the 

risk of his own life. 

Twenty people, including six firemen, died at this incident. Harry, a Saville Row tailor by day, continued to serve with the A.F.S. 

throughout the war. He had a life-long interest in basketball and managed the basket ball competition in the 1948 London 

Olmpics. He was always a welcome visitor to ‗his‘ Soho fire station and on the occasion of his 90 th birthday he attended a 

birthday party there given in his honour. He died on the 15 th December 2004, aged 94. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal. (Civil Division): — (Supplement to the L/G 35239, 8 th August 1941, pp. 4548.) 

George Edward SWITZER, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

During an air raid some premises, part of which was used as a stable, were set on fire. The stable, in which 39 horses were 

tethered, was filled with smoke and in complete darkness. Switzer first detailed a crew to deal with the spreading fire and then 

organised a party to rescue the annuals. He led the way into the building and succeeded in bringing out the frightened animals. It 

was necessary to make several journeys while high explosive bombs were being dropped nearby. 

Station Officer Switzer's promptitude and leadership resulted in the rescue-of all the animals and prevented the complete 

destruction of the building. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal. (Civil Division): — (Supplement to the L/G 35239, 8 th August 1941, pp. 4548.) 

Douglas VOSPER, Leader, Boy Scouts Volunteer Trailer Pump Crew, Saltash Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During an air raid a trailer pump in charge of Vosper was straddled by two H.E. bombs which killed one scout and seriously 

injured two others. 

Vosper drove the victims to the First Aid Post and then returned to his pump and continued to fight the fires throughout the night 

and the next day. Vosper showed courage and endurance and the example he set was of a very high standard. 


Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence: — (Supplement to the L/G 35239, 8 th 

August 1941, pp. 4548.) 

Ernest Michael BRADY, D.C.M., Assistant Fire Chief, Firm's Auxiliary Fire Service, Nottingham. 

Sidney CUMMINGS, Member, Boy Scouts Volunteer Trailer Pump Crew, Saltash Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Henry MURRAY, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Roy William SANDERSON, Auxiliary Fireman, Nottingham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Wilfred TILCOTT, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Ernest Henry TOOKEY, Fire Fighter, A.R.P. Service, Plymouth. 

Awarded the George Medal:— (Supplement to the L/G 35245, 15 th August 1941, pp. 4704.) 

Lawrence Barclay YOUNG, Police Fireman, Newcastle-upon-Tyne Police Fire Brigade. 

A crater made by an enemy bomb was practically filled with debris but a small cavity ten feet deep and two feet wide remained, 

through which a child fell. There was an unsuspected concentration of gas in the hole and a boy who was lowered on a rope in an 

effort to rescue the child, collapsed on reaching the bottom. 

A further attempt was made by a man who lowered himself into the cavity. He also was rendered unconscious by the gas. An 

auxiliary fireman then descended and managed to fasten the rope to the boy who was hauled to the top. The fireman himself was 

overcome and collapsed at the bottom of the hole. A third fireman endeavoured to get out one of the victims but had to give up as 

he was suffering from the effects of gas. 

Young, although fully aware that previous attempts had proved fatal to the rescuers, immediately entered the crater and, after 

removing some debris which had fallen on the casualties, was able to place ropes around them. He made three descents into the 

gasfilled hole and brought out the victims. Young was affected by the gas but on recovery helped to apply artificial respiration 

until all were taken to hospital. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal. (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 35245, 15 th August 1941, pp. 4705.) 

Harold MARRIOTT, Police Sergeant, Hull Police Fire Brigade. 

During air raids Police Sergeant Marriott has shown courage and resource in his duty, and his initiative and leadership have been 

responsible for the saving of much valuable property. When a H.E. bomb damaged the Fire Station, Marriott refused to give up 

and went in search of another building. Having secured one he superintended the removal of equipment and was able to get all the 

fires in his area under control and damped down before the raid was over. 

60

COMMENDATIONS. (Supplement to the L/G 35245, 15 th August 1941, pp. 4705/6.) 


George Wilfred BRUCE, Leading Fireman, Newcastle- on-Tyne Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Frank James GREEN, Patrol Officer, Coventry Auxiliary Fire Service. 

George WANLESS (deceased), Auxiliary Fireman, Newcastle-on-Tyne Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Joan MAYNARD, Mrs. Youngson, Driver, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

To be Additional Officers of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: —(Supplement to the 

L/G.35252, 22 nd August 1941, pp. 4847.) 

Cecil Browning LYNE, Chief Officer, Bodmin Fire Brigade. 

During air raids on Plymouth, fires were started and spread rapidly through a narrow thoroughfare connecting two streets. Mains 

were damaged and water had to be taken from a large bomb crater nearby. The heat was intense and there was great danger from 

falling debris. Chief Fire Officer Lyne directed the laying of hose and, in spite of a continual fall of incendiary and high explosive 

bombs, successfully fought the blaze. 

Except for a short rest, this officer remained on the fireground for thirty-six hours during intensive air attacks. He showed courage 

and endurance of a high order and under his energetic leadership much valuable property was saved. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division). —(Supplement to the L/G.35252, 22 nd August 1941, pp. 4849.) 

John Francis CLANCEY, Auxilary Fireman, Birmingham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During an air raid premises were struck by incendiary bombs and fire broke out. 

Whilst the fire was being attacked a terrific explosion occurred in the burning part of the building due to the ignition of varnish 

tanks. Without hesitation Auxiliary Fireman Clancey went to the edge of the fire and succeeded in checking the spread of the 

flames. There was imminent danger of a further explosion occurring but although Clancey knew this he remained at his post and 

by his courageous action drove the fire back and prevented further damage. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): — (Supplement to the L/G.35252, 22 nd August 1941, pp. 4849.) 

Harry George HARVEY, Acting Station Officer, London Fire Service. 

Acting Station Officer Harvey was in charge of a number of appliances at fires caused by enemy action. The fierceness of these 

fires caused Harvey to become almost blind but, in spite of very severe pain, he continued to go from one fire to another directing 

operations and encouraging the men in his charge. He displayed great powers of endurance and devotion to duty. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Supplement to the L/G.35252, 22 nd August 1941, pp. 4849.) 

Arthur William LARSON, Fire Inspector, Plymouth Police Fire 

John Francis Cresswell PEACE, Police Constable; Plymouth Police Fire 

William Albert EDGECOMBE, Auxiliary Fireman, Plymouth Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Bombs caused several large fires at an Omnibus Depot. Fire Inspector Larson was . in charge of the operations which were 

rendered difficult and dangerous by burning oil and exploding petrol tanks. Larson, Police Fireman Peace and Auxiliary Fireman 

Edgecombe took up the most dangerous positions and after three hours succeeded in subduing the flames. During the whole of 

this period high explosive and incendiary . bombs were being dropped and the three men suffered considerably from the effect of 

blast and flying debris but refused to give up. They set a very fine example of fire fighting in conditions where there was great 

risk of death or injury. 


Leslie Edmund Procter STEPHENS, Messenger, Plymouth Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During an air attack on Plymouth, incendiary and H.E. bombs caused many fires. Stephens was attached to a crew which was sent 

to a large fire. A high explosive bomb fell nearby and Stephens sustained injuries and suffered from the effects of blast. In spite 

of this he continued with his duties carrying messages and helping to fight the fires. Stephens, a boy of 16 years of age, displayed 

courage and a high sense of duty throughout the period of the raids. 


Cyril Gordon TOBIAS, District Officer, London Fire Service. 

When high explosive and incendiary bombs caused several fires in his area, District Officer Tobias took charge of the operations. 

The water supply failed but with initiative and skill he organised a relaying service which prevented the fires from spreading. It 

was necessary for him frequently to visit the water relaying units and the journeys, which had to be made on foot, were extremely 

dangerous owing to falling debris. 

Tobias remained continuously at work for nineteen hours and he showed great coolness, efficiency and exceptional qualities of 

leadership. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Supplement to the L/G.35252, 22 nd August 1941, pp 4850/1.) 


Frank BAILEY, Leading Fireman, Manchester Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Terence DONLON, Fireman, Manchester Auxiliary Fire Service. 

John Henry KIDD, Fireman, Manchester Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Ernest OLDHAM, Fireman, Manchester Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Miss Muguette May Edith HANDS, Telephonist, Coventry Auxiliary Fire Service. 

61

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Supplement to the L/G.35252, 22 nd August 1941, pp. 4850.) 

Arthur Henry WARNER, Messenger, Coventry Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During an air raid, Messenger Warner, acting in the capacity of a fireman, worked a pump until it ran short of petrol. He then 

went to his Station for supplies and with these he cycled back to the fire and once more carried on, helping the firemen. Warner 

performed his duties of messenger during heavy bombing and showed great courage and determination. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Third Supplement to the L/G.35683, 28 th August 1942, pp. 3770.) 


James Jameson LEE, Fireman, Belfast Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Oliver William MARKWELL, Leading Fireman, (Ipswich), No. 13 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

Awarded the George Medal: —(Supplement to the L/G 35258, 29 th August 1941, pp. 5000.) 

William Wilfred BENNETT, Auxiliary Fireman, Birmingham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): — 

James Henry MEERS, Auxiliary Fireman, Birmingham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During an air raid, Auxiliary Firemen Meers and Bennett were on duty at a Sub-Station on Works premises when it was wrecked 

and set on fire by a H.E. bomb. A man on the second floor was blown by the blast across an exposed girder where he was in grave 

danger of being burnt to death. Meers and Bennett, although badly shaken by the explosion, at once attempted to rescue him. 

Bennett, by climbing a girder, reached the victim and, with the help of Meers, brought the injured man to safety. The fire spread 

rapidly and it was necessary to evacuate a basement shelter. Despite the intense heat and dense smoke, Meers and Bennett helped 

to remove the occupants, some of whom were injured. Later, hearing cries for help they re-entered the basement and guided two 

men to safety. They then rejoined their A.F.S. colleagues and tackled the fire. Bennett showed great courage and initiative and 

was ably assisted by Meers. 

Awarded the George Medal: — (Supplement to the L/G 35258, 29 th August 1941, pp. 5001.) 

Robert Albert PULLINGER, Station Officer, London Fire Service. 

William Everley Grant DEWDNEY, Sub-Officer, London Fire Service. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): — (Supplement to the L/G 35258, 29 th August 1941, pp 5001.) 

Thomas Robert Lancelot BLACK, Auxiliary Fireman, London Fire Service. 

William Albert COOPER, Temporary Fireman, London Fire Service. 

A hospital received a direct hit from a high explosive bomb which caused the building to catch fire. Cries for help were heard 

coming from a window on the second floor and a man was seen crouching on the window sill. With great difficulty, owing to the 

roadway being strewn with fallen masonry, the crew of a fire appliance at once pitched the escape. Auxiliary Fireman Black, 

although injured by blast from the explosion, mounted the escape and brought the man, down. Other persons were in the building 

and Station Officer Pullinger and Sub-Officer Dewdney ascended the escape taking a hose with them. While Pullinger attacked 

the. fire, Dewdney rescued a man who was on a bed about five feet from the window. Pullinger carried him down to the ground 

while Dewdney took over the hose. By this time the floor of the room, two of the sides of which had been wholly or partly 

demolished by the explosion, was sloping at an acute angle. 

Two bed-ridden male patients were on the floor at the far side of the room and near to the edge of the exposed portion of the floor. 

Pullinger again ascended the escape, passed over Dewdney and entered the room. Although the floor appeared about to collapse, 

he made his way across to the two men, carried one to the window, re-crossed the room and brought out the other. One man was 

placed on Dewdney's back and carried down while Pullinger took over the hose. 

Meanwhile Cooper climbed the escape with a lowering line and, while Pullinger and Dewdney lowered the last of the four patients 

to the ground, entered the room and continued to fight the fire. While the rescues were being made the fire was increasing and 

bombs were dropped nearby. The floor of the room collapsed shortly after the patients were rescued. 

Pullinger showed outstanding qualities of leadership and both he and Dewdney displayed exceptional courage and a total disregard 

of their own safety in rescuing three patients who would otherwise have lost their lives. 

Black's endurance and courage enabled him, in spite of his injury, to rescue the first patient from a precarious position. The last 

rescue was achieved largely through the promptitude and foresight of Cooper in taking the line up to the room. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Supplement to the L/G 35258, 29 th August 1941, pp. 5002.) 

Peter Bernard HELLINGS, Firefighter (Clerk), Great Western Railway, Swansea. 

During an air raid Hellings worked hard extinguishing incendiary bombs and his .knowledge of railway premises proved 

invaluable to A.F.S. personnel. When cottages were hit by a H.E. bomb he helped to marshal the occupants to shelters and by his 

calmness allayed their fears. He afterwards went to a large fire and rendered all possible assistance on the pumps and hoses. 

Hellings' conduct throughout the raid was outstanding and he was on continuous duty for eighteen hours. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Supplement to the L/G 35258, 29 th August 1941, pp 5002). 

Ronald HEYS, Messenger, Bootle Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During the height of an air raid Heys carried many messages and obtained information of vital importance to the Fire Services. In 

the course of his various journeys five bicycles were damaged by blast arid falling debris whilst in use by him. On one occasion 

he was blown from his machine and rendered unconscious for a time but, on recovering, completed his journey and delivered his 

message. Messenger Heys showed great devotion to duty and gave splendid service. 

62

COMMENDATIONS. (Supplement to the L/G 35258, 29 th August 1941, pp. 5003.) 


John ASHE, Leading Fireman, Bootle Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Joseph Patrick CARAHAR, Section Officer, Bootle Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Edgar Allen COLMAR, Patrol Officer, Bootle Auxiliary Fire Service. 

.Stanley Lawrence CRAVEN, Section Officer, Bootle Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Edward DAVIES, Section Officer, Bootle Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Michael Joseph ENRIGHT, Fireman, Bootle Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Stanley Vivian HILTON, Messenger, Bootle Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Thomas MAGUIRE, Fireman, Liverpool Auxiliary Fire Service 

John Robert PATTERSON. Temporary Fireman, London Fire Service. 

William POTTER, Acting Station Officer, London Fire Service. 

Awarded the George Medal:— (Supplement to the L/G 35336, 7 th September 1941, pp. 6423). 

Michael HOGAN, Driver, Works Fire Service, Portsmouth. 


John Godfrey Adrian WAY-HOPE, Control Officer, Works A.R.P. Organisation, Portsmouth. 

During an air raid Hogan, who was working as a member of the crew of a fire engine, was twice blown from a quay into the water, 

by blast of H.E. bombs, but he climbed out and continued his work. The raid increased in intensity and a large shelter, occupied 

by women and children, was threatened by spreading fires. A request was made for volunteers to remove the shelterer‟s to a place 

of safety and, although high explosive bombs were being dropped in considerable numbers, Hogan made a number of journeys, 

transporting the people to safer areas. Whilst thus engaged an incendiary bomb lodged just in front of the windscreen of the van 

he was driving. He promptly extinguished it and resumed his journey. Hogan showed great bravery and continued fighting the 

fires throughout the following day and night. 

Mr. Way-Hope was responsible for organizing and co-ordinating all the Works Civil Defence Services which were brought into 

action during this raid and, by his devotion to duty, contributed to the efficient handling of the situation. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 35336, 7 th September 1941, pp. 6424.) 

Thomas David YOUNG, Section Officer, Tottenham Auxilary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

During an air raid Section Officer Young was on leave but volunteered to form one of the crew of a heavy unit ordered to a fire at 

a warehouse. After this fire was extinguished, a number of half-submerged barges were seen to be alight. The barges were 

moored to a ship lying alongside a quay but were lying off from the ship some thirty feet. Young boarded the barges by sliding 

down the mooring line from the ship's deck and enabled a hose to be got to work on the barges which prevented the fire reaching 

an adjoining transport ship. Young remained in this precarious position for some hours, even when the barges were in a sinking 

condition. It was not until a tug was obtained and the barges pushed ashore that help could be given. Young displayed 

exceptional courage and daring. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to the L/G 35271, 12 th September 1941, pp. 5268.) 

Archibald Stanley PRATTEN, M.B.E., Firemaster, Greenock Fire Brigade. 

William NEILL, Sub-Officer, Greenock Fire Brigade. 

James BERRY, Auxiliary Fireman, Greenock Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During an air raid, fire threatened a warehouse in which inflammable spirit was stored. Alcohol, which was leaking from the 

seams of a large vat, was set alight. Firemaster Pratten, with Sub-Officer Neill and Auxiliary Fireman Berry waded into the spirit 

under the tank and eventually managed to extinguish the flames. Several times during this extremely dangerous operation the men 

were cut off from the exit by the flames running back over the spirit. 

Pratten, Neill and Berry showed great courage and by their efforts much valuable material was saved. 

Awarded The British Empire Medal (Civil Division): — (Supplement to the L/G 35271, 12 th September 1941, pp. 5269.) 

Robert McCALLUM, Messenger, Greenock J Auxiliary Fire Service, 

Messenger McCallum showed great gallantry and devotion to duty, carrying messages in-the face of considerable difficulties. 

Time after time McCallum's bicycles were damaged by debris or bombs, and he had to discard six machines which were not fit for 

further service. On one occasion he was warned that a wall might collapse. As he jumped clear the wall fell and buried his 

bicycle. He commandeered another machine and continued his journey. On another occasion, shortly after leaving his bicycle, it 

was blown to bits and he delivered his message on foot. Several times he had to carry his bicycle over debris or craters, and on 

one occasion he was blown from the machine by blast. McCallum showed outstanding courage and devotion to duty. 


Patrick Reid MEIKLEJOHN, Auxiliary Fireman, Greenock Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Auxiliary Fireman Meiklejohn was entrusted with an important message in the early stages of an air raid. During the journey he 

ran into a bomb crater and sustained head injuries. Although dazed and injured and suffering from shock and concussion, he 

insisted on continuing his journey and delivered his message. After a short rest he resumed his duties and though ordered to a 

First Aid Post, remained on duty throughout the raid. Meiklejohn showed courage and performed services of great value. 


Miss Barbara May RENDALL, Watchroom Attendant, Plymouth Auxiliary Fire Service. 

63

Miss Rendell worked throughout the intensive air raids on Plymouth and, although several H.E. bombs fell nearby, she remained 

at her post and carried out her duties in a cool and efficient manner. An explosion caused windows, doors and ceilings to be 

blown into the room in which she was working and Miss Rendell sustained injuries and was partially buried in the debris. After 

treatment she wished to return to her work but was not allowed to do so. The courage, fortitude and determination displayed by 

this girl was outstanding. 


Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence. (Supplement to the L/G 35174, 30 th May 

1941, pp. 3069.) 

William Eric BURGESS, Fireman, Manchester Fire Brigade. 

John George HODGSON, Salvageman, Liverpool Salvage Corps. 

Neil LEITCH (deceased), Boy Messenger, Glasgow Auxiliary Fire Service. 

John Herbert SUTTON, Auxiliary Fireman Driver, Penge Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Awarded The British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Supplement to the L/G 35271, 12 th September 1941, pp. 5270.) 

Henry SMITH, Patrol Officer, Greenock Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Patrol Officer Smith behaved with great coolness and disregard of personal danger when his sub-station was set on fire during an 

air raid. He was partially buried under falling debris but despite the injuries he received he continued to carry out his duties and 

set a magnificent example to his men. 

Awarded The British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Supplement to the L/G 35271, 12 th September 1941, pp. 5270). 

William Norman TUDMAN; Section Officer, Greenock Auxiliary Fire Service.. 

Section Officer Tudman was in charge of a Fire Float when a bomb struck a quay, killing one of the crew and injuring another. 

The craft was also, machine gunned. Nevertheless, with the casualties aboard, the Float was taken to its appointed post and was 

immediately put into action. Tudman. displayed considerable courage during the operations and was outstanding in the cool 

manner in which he went about his work and encouraged his men. He showed qualities of leadership ;which contributed in no 

small measure to the success of the Fire Brigade operations carried out in this raid. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Supplement to the L/G 35271, 12 th September 1941, pp. 5271.) 


Eva Mary, Mrs. HYDE, Motor Driver and Canteen Worker, Leicester Fire Service. 

Hector McDONALD, Leading Fireman, Clydebank Auxiliary Fire Service. 

John Scott TULIP (deceased), Auxiliary Fireman, Newcastle-upon-Tyne Auxiliary Fire Service. 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire:—(Supplement to the 

L/G.35277, 19 th September 1941, pp 5397. 

Joseph CLITHEROW, Chief Officer, Stretford and Urmston Fire Brigade. 

Chief Officer Clitherow has shown devotion to duty and high qualities of leadership throughout enemy air attacks on his district. 

Whenever conditions in the control room permitted, he has personally visited the fireground, directing operations where special 

difficulties seemed likely to nullify the men's efforts to get fires under control. By his determination and disregard of personal 

safety in exceedingly dangerous circumstances he has encouraged and inspired his men.. 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire:— (Supplement to the 

L/G.35277, 19 th September 1941, pp. 5397/8.) 

Reginald John SMITH, Superintendent (Deputy Chief Officer), Plymouth Fire Brigade. 

During the enemy air raids on Plymouth, Superintendent Smith has displayed outstanding qualities of leadership and courage. 

On one occasion when a fire threatened an ammunition depot he took a hose inside the burning building and, despite exploding 

ammunition and the danger from falling masonry, remained until the fire was put out. Superintendent Smith has set a splendid 

example to his men and has performed his duties with a total disregard of danger to himself. 

Awarded the George Medal.— (Supplement to the L/G 35277, 19 th September 1941, pp. 5398.) 

John COLLETTA, Auxiliary Driver, Hull Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Buildings were hit by bombs and many fires broke out. Colletta took charge of a hose line in front of a warehouse. He remained 

there, amidst the falling debris and encircled by flames, playing water on the building. There was no cover and a nearby wall 

collapsed within inches of where he stood. 

Later in the raid it was necessary for a hose to be played on the back wall of a museum, which was separated by a distance of only 

six feet from the wall of a blazing five-storey warehouse. The heat was terrific, but Colletta insisted on remaining in the narrow 

alley formed by the two buildings although the wall was expected to fall at any moment. His courage was an inspiration to his 

colleagues. 

Awarded the George Medal.—(Supplement to the L/G 35277, 19 th September 1941, pp. 5398.) 

John Calder CUNNINGHAM, Fireman, London Fire Service. 

Henry William MOULD, Leading Auxiliary Fireman, London Fire Service. 

During an air raid several buildings were partially demolished and set on fire. At the entrance of one a man was pinned down by 

fallen debris. Although several attempts were made to extricate him, they had to be abandoned owing to intense heat and smoke. 

64

Cunningham and Mould, who were at work with a hose on a nearby building, so utilized the water that the fire was prevented from 

reaching the trapped man. Heavy bombing was in progress but they advanced with the hose as far as possible into the partially 

demolished building. Alternately one held the hose and protected the man, whilst the other endeavoured to remove sufficient 

debris to effect his release. Owing to the weight of a beam, which was burning fiercely, this could not be managed. Despite the 

intense heat and smoke and the likelihood of the remainder of the building collapsing, both men persisted in their efforts until, 

after about an hour, some more of the burning debris collapsed and broke the beam. They were then able to extricate the man. 

Cunningham and Mould displayed great courage and resource and it was entirely due to their untiring efforts that the man's life 

was saved. 

Awarded the George Medal.— (Supplement to the L/G 35277, 19 th September 1941, pp. 5398.) 

Frederick Lewis FOSKER, Auxiliary Fireman, London Fire Service. 

Incendiary bombs fell on a large house and part of the roof and second floor were set on fire. Auxiliary Fireman Fosker and 

several soldiers worked on the second floor with a stirrup pump in an endeavour to subdue the flames. The soldiers were advised 

to leave the building. One, who was nearest to the fire, was overcome by smoke and collapsed and fell forward from the landing 

into the blaze. There was a very real danger of the roof falling in and the floor collapsing, but, although aware of this, Fosker did 

not hesitate. Despite the great heat, he plunged into the flames and smoke and brought out the unconscious soldier and dragged 

him to the stairs. Fosker, who was badly burned while effecting the rescue, fell down the stairs to the first floor landing. He was 

removed to hospital and detained. Fosker displayed promptness of action and great courage and undoubtedly saved the life of the 

soldier at considerable risk to his own. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) –(Supplement to the L/G 35277, 19 th September 1941, pp. 5400.) 

Arthur BUCKNALL, Leading Fireman, Hull Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Tom DAVISON, Auxiliary Fireman, Hull Auxiliary Fire Service. 

George Edward BLADES, Second Line Towing Vehicle Volunteer, Hull Auxiliary Fire Service. 

These men were engaged in fighting a large oil fire and, although aircraft were using this fire as a target area, worked continuously 

to subdue the flames. Blazing oil ran down the street and affected many houses, in one of which a woman and her five children 

were trapped. Without any consideration for themselves and regardless of the danger, the three firemen rushed into the house and, 

though the heat was almost unbearable, succeeded in removing the woman and children to a place of safety 


Thomas CALLAGHAN, Acting Sergeant, Wigan Fire Brigade. 

Sergeant Callaghan displayed courage and resource when fighting fires caused by enemy action. Once, when a fire spread to a 

dynamo room the engineers were unable to switch off the electric current. Sergeant Callaghan was aware of the danger of serious 

shock but he insisted on taking over the hose and he quelled the fire. He showed qualities of leadership and, while he took risks 

himself, he was constantly mindful for the safety of the men around him. 


Elizabeth Anne EMERY, Woman Auxiliary, London Fire Service. 

Woman Auxiliary Emery, who is a driver, has attended many fires, often in conditions of great danger. Her conduct has been 

outstanding and she has shown composure and coolness in very dangerous circumstances. On one occasion when H.E. and 

incendiary bombs were falling close to oil tanks, Woman Auxiliary Emery, on her own initiative, took some small extinguishers 

off appliances and climbing over fences and rough ground, herself dealt with several of the incendiary bombs. Her brave action 

prevented one or more tanks from becoming involved. 

CENTRAL CHANCERY OF THE ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD 

St. James's Palace, S.W 1, 2 nd September, 1941. 

.(A ‗grey‘ entry). The following awards indicate how it was ‗all hands to the pumps‘ during the air raids.) 

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the following appointments to the Most Excellent Order of the British 

Empire, for bravery and devotion to duty during an air raid on the City of Portsmouth: 

To be Additional Members of the Military Division of the said Most Excellent Order: —(Second Supplement to the L/G 35281, 

23 rd September 1941, pp. 5499.) 

Temporary Lieutenant Eric WORSLEY, G.M., R.N.V.R. 

Temporary Sub-Lieutenant Jack GAMMON, 

The KING has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the George Medal, for fortitude and devotion to duty while 

serving with a fire party during an air raid on the Port of London to: (Second Supplement to the L/G 35281, 23 rd September 

1941, pp. 5499.) 

Lieutenant - Commander Thomas HERRIOT, Royal Navy (Retired). 

The KING has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the British Empire Medal (Military Division), for bravery and 

devotion to duty during an air raid on the City of Portsmouth to: (Second Supplement to the L/G 35281, 23 rd September 1941, 

pp. 5499.) 

Sick Berth Petty Officer James Charles STANSMORE, 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Second Supplement to the L/G 35285, 26 th September 1941, pp 5583.) 

Albert Francis JAGO, Auxiliary Fireman, Southampton Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

65

After an air raid there were many serious fires. The number of men working in damping down and preventing the spread of fire 

was reduced to a minimum to enable the remainder to be supplied with food and rest. Auxiliary Fireman Jago volunteered to 

remain alone and deal with a fire although he knew that there were two unexploded time bombs within a few yards of where he 

was working. Jago showed cool courage and complete indifference to danger and as a result valuable property was saved. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Second Supplement to the L/G 35285, 26 tth September 1941, pp. 5584.) 

Thomas Henry RUMSEY, Inspector, Police Fire Brigade, Hull (now Divisional Officer, No. 6 (Hull) Fire Force, National Fire 

Service). 

During an enemy air attack, despite the fact that H.E. bombs were dropped around them, Inspector Rumsey and his crew continued 

in their efforts to subdue a fierce fire and were instrumental in saving a building of vital importance. Inspector Rumsey's 

outstanding devotion to duty and untiring efforts were an inspiration to his crew. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Second Supplement to the L/G 35285, 26 th September 1941, pp. 5584.) 

Jack VALE, Patrol Officer, Plymouth Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

During enemy air raids on Plymouth Patrol Officer Vale was in control of the feeding arrangements for the Fire Services and 

worked unceasingly in conditions of extreme danger to ensure that the wants of the crews were adequately met. 

Vale's efficiency, resourcefulness and untiring efforts were outstanding and he displayed courage in continuing in his duties when 

bombs fell nearby causing considerable damage to the building in which he was working. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Second Supplement to the L/G 35285, 26 th September 1941, pp. 5884.) 

Louis Maurice WALSH, Patrol Officer, Bristol Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Walsh has shown outstanding devotion to duty during enemy air raids. He has acted as driver, prepared relays, assisted in the 

erection of temporary dams and volunteered to act as leader of fire crews. When acting as driver his journeys necessitated driving 

through districts which were being subjected to intense bombing and where there was considerable danger from fires and unsafe 

buildings. Patrol Officer Walsh displayed great courage and set an example to all other fire service personnel. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Second Supplement to the L/G 35285, 26 th September 1941, pp. 5884) 

George Stanley TURNER, Patrol Officer, Bootle Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service) 

John WINSHIP, Acting Leading Fireman, Hull Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Awarded the George Medal:— (Supplement to the L/G 35293, 3 rd October 1941, pp 5706. 

Arthur Charles Aldridge FRENCH, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service). 

George Frederick WATLING, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service). 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— Supplement to the L/G 35293, 3 rd . October 1941, pp. 5706. 

John Richard Stanley ADLAM, Station Officer,. London Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service.). 

Alfred Robert BLANCHARD, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Enemy action caused severe fires on a railway bridge and surrounding property. Station Officers French and Watling were in 

charge of fire crews and under their direction the men worked bravely to save the bridge. A heavy time bomb was dropped within 

a few yards of where the firemen were working but although the two Station Officers and each of the members of the crew fully 

realised the danger to which they were exposed, they did not hesitate to tackle the fire which was within fifteen yards of the bomb. 

The Station Officers displayed bold and fearless leadership and Adlam and Blanchard, with the rest of the crews, showed 

continued courage and persistence over a period of more than four hours and successfully prevented the flames from reaching the 

bomb, thus saving an important railway bridge and station. 

COMMENDATIONS. :— (Supplement to the L/G 35293, 3 rd October 1941, pp. 5708.) 

Those named below have been commended for brave conduct in Civil Defence:— 

Soloman BOGUSH, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Cecil Tester COATES, Leading Auxiliary; London Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Frank Horace COOMBER, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Ludovico Thomas DALMASIO, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Alfred Thomas Leonard DAVEY, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Frank FAIRLIE, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Leslie Edward FARRANT, Temporary Fireman, London Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service). 

Henry Richard GENT, Temporary Fireman, London Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service). 

Alfred John HILL, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Brewster Frederick Evans LOWING, Member of Fire watcher, Ramsgate. 

William James MARTIN, Fireman, Southend-on-Sea Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service). 

Charles Herbert MASCALL, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Awarded the British Empire Medal. (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 35302, 10 th October 1941, pp. 5838.) 

Ronald William EUSTACE, Patrol Officer, Exeter Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

During an air raid a large store was set on fire and the intense heat endangered other buildings on the opposite side of the street. 

The walls of the burning store were in a dangerous condition and. sections crashed down at intervals, the debris being thrown 

across the narrow road. It was not possible with jets placed in a reasonably safe position, to obtain a sufficient force of water to 

protect the premises. Patrol Officer Eustace, without hesitation, took a branch-pipe and by a series of dashes through the intense 

66

heat was able to damp down the fronts of the buildings. He showed great devotion to duty and it was mainly due to his example 

and leadership that much valuable property was saved. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal. (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 35302, 10 th October 1941, pp. 5839.) 

Vernon Harold SELLWOOD, Messenger, Portsmouth Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

During an air raid Messenger Sellwood, who is only sixteen years of age, undertook the full duties and risks of a fireman and for a 

period of over four hours stood unflinchingly at his post in the face of severe bombing which killed several of the Auxiliary Fire 

Service personnel. Sellwood showed courage and devotion to duty. 


Those named below have been commended for brave conduct in Civil Defence: —(Supplement to the L/G 35302, 10 th October 

1941, pp. 5839.) 

Douglas Gordon SANDFORD, Messenger, Exeter Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Laurence William SAVILLE, Fireman Driver, Edmonton Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service). 

To be an Additional Member of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: —( Supplement to the L/G 

35327, 31 st October 1941, pp. 6301.) 

Stanley Frank WILLEY. Regional Fire Brigade Inspector, South-Western Region. 

Mr. Willey has shown great zeal and efficiency in organising fire-fighting in Bristol and on many occasions has taken a 

courageous and effective part in the actual operations. During an air attack on Plymouth he improvised arrangements to billet and 

feed reinforcements. He-went out during an intense period of the raid and worked throughout the night organising water supplies. 

Mr. Willey showed courage and devotion to duty and, by his calm and cheerful demeanour, set an example to the fire-fighters. 


Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct in Civil Defence: — Supplement to the L/G 35327, 31 st October 

1941, pp. 6302. 

Albert Edward HARRIS, Auxiliary Fireman, Mitcham Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

St. James's Palace, S.W.1. 2lst. October, 1941. 


specially shown below as having received an expression of Commendation. (Supplement to the L/G 35327, 31st. October 1941, 

pp. 6302.) 

This is a change of the format usually used by the L/G for the listing of Commendations. It is not known why this variation 

appeared. Perhaps the word ‗specially‘ gives a clue. 

For brave conduct in hazardous circumstances 

Joseph CHURCHILL, Deputy Chief Officer, Lincoln Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service). 

Jonathan GOSLING, First Officer, Lincoln Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service). 

William Henry ARDEN, Auxiliary Fireman, Lincoln Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Percy Alfred BARKER, Auxiliary Fireman, Lincoln Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Thomas Riley BRAY, Auxiliary Fireman, Lincoln Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Charles Henry MUNDIN, Leading Fireman, Lincoln Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Wilfred Vert OXFORD, Leading Fireman, Lincoln Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Arthur ROBERTS, Section Officer, Lincoln Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Edwin William WHITAKER, Auxiliary Fireman, Lincoln Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

James WOODYET, Auxiliary Fireman, Lincoln Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division). —(Supplement to the L/G. 35336, 7 th November 1941, pp. 6424.) 

Stanley HORSCROFT. Sub-Officer, Edmonton Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service). 

Sub-Officer Horscroft, when engaged on duties at a serious dock fire, organised a water relay, service thus effectively getting to 

work many pumps that would otherwise have been out of action. During intense aerial bombardment his example, leadership and 

disregard of danger, greatly contributed to the fire being got under control. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division). —(Supplement to the L/G. 35336, 7 th November 1941, pp. 6424.) 

Thomas David YOUNG, Section Officer, Tottenham Auxilary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

During an air raid Section Officer Young was on leave but volunteered to form one of the crew of a heavy unit ordered to a fire at 

a warehouse. After this fire was extinguished, a number of half-submerged barges were seen to be alight. The barges were 

moored to a ship lying alongside a quay but were lying off from the ship some thirty feet. Young boarded the barges by sliding 

down the mooring line from the ship's deck and enabled a hose to be got to work on the barges which prevented the fire reaching 

an adjoining transport ship. Young remained in this precarious position . for some hours, even when the barges were in a sinking 

condition. It was not until a tug was obtained and the barges pushed ashore that help could be given. Young displayed 

exceptional courage and daring. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Supplement to the L/G. 35351, 21 st November 1941, pp. 6692.) 

Edward IRWIN, Fireman (Constable), Salford Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service). 

67

When the Nurses' Quarters of the Salford Royal Hospital were hit by a H.E. bomb, Fireman Irwin helped to rescue two nurses 

buried under the debris. He searched amongst the wreckage and located another nurse who was trapped. In order to reach her he 

had to remove a considerable amount of debris and then crawl under the wreckage through a small hole. The nurse was tightly 

trapped by a heavy girder and tons of masonry on her left arm. Although there was constant danger of the further collapse of the 

building Irwin remained with her and attempted to make her comfortable until he was relieved by a fully equipped rescue party. 


Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct in Civil Defence: — (Supplement to the L/G. 35351, 21 st 

November 1941, pp. 6692.) 

Fred Hall SMITH, Leading Fireman, Salford Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Awarded the George Medal:— (Supplement to the L/G 35359, 28 th November 1941, pp. 6821.) 

Cornelius LEGG, Station Officer, London Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):—(Supplement to the L/G 35359, 28 th November 1941, pp. 6821). 

Leonard Arthur BURLEY, Acting Sub-Officer, 

William Charles KILLBOURN, Leading Auxiliary Fireman, 

Legg, Burley and Killbourn were members of a Fire Service contingent sent from London to Plymouth. They showed courage and 

devotion to duty in fighting fires under heavy bombardment and their work of rescue was performed with complete disregard of 

their own safety. Bombs fell close to where Killbourn was working and damaged a public shelter and persons were trapped inside. 

The debris which had fallen from nearby buildings had also trapped three auxiliary firemen and a war reserve policeman. 

Killbourn, in spite of the continual fall of masonry, led his men in clearing away the debris in an endeavour to rescue the victims. 

He was joined by Legg and Burley and with the help of other fire service personnel the four men were extricated. Attempts were 

then made to rescue the people in the damaged shelter. Heavy bombing was still in progress and the buildings around had been 

badly damaged and were collapsing. Because of the danger, Legg ordered the men away and, at considerable risk to his own life, 

went into the crater 

and tried to find the entrance to the shelter. He began to remove some of the debris and to tunnel underneath. Burley and 

Killbourn then went down into the crater to help. Legg worked in a very cramped space and under extremely arduous conditions, 

but he persisted until he made a small opening through which he was able to crawl. He was then able to release seven of the 

casualties whom he passed to the men outside. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): — (Supplement to the L/G 35359, 28 th November 1941, pp. 6822.) 

Edward William BAILEY, District Officer, London Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Throughout the period of heavy enemy air attacks, Mr. Bailey attended many fires and directed fire-fighting operations with 

marked efficiency. He showed good leadership and set a fine example to the men under his command. His courage and coolness 

in emergency and his devotion to duty have been outstanding. 

On one occasion, Mr. Bailey was injured but although in great pain continued to direct operations. Later, he was in a Fire Station 

when it was demolished by H.E. bombs. He directed the evacuation of the staff which, owing to the collapse of parts of the 

building, was carried out with extreme difficulty. The cool, calm manner in which Mr. Bailey carried out operational duties, under 

conditions of great stress, did much to steady the remainder of the staff. 


Sydney Frank CHANDLER, Station Officer, London Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Station Officer Chandler has, on many occasions, displayed efficiency and resource in dealing with difficult circumstances arising 

out of fires during air raids, particularly in relation to the disposition of appliances and the re-organisation of water supplies. On 

one occasion a bomb exploded about thirty yards-from where Chandler was working. 

The explosion completely demolished a building, a trailer pump was partly buried in the debris and three other appliances had to 

be temporarily abandoned. Chandler was blown over by the blast, but helped to remove eight injured men to a place of greater 

safety. His pluck and tenacity set a fine example to his men and enabled the fire fighting to continue unabated. 


Miss Patricia DEWING, Driver, London Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

During an air raid Driver Dewing was driving a staff car when a high explosive bomb exploded about fifteen yards away, 

shattering the glass and severely damaging the vehicle. The roof of the car caught fire and Driver Dewing put this out with an 

extinguisher. Although bruised and suffering from shock, she procured another car and rejoined her Officer. The enemy attack 

was concentrated and lasted for some hours. High explosive and incendiary bombs were falling in the district most of the time. In 

addition to conveying vital messages during the height of the attack, Miss Dewing saved one building from fire by promptly 

removing two incendiary bombs from an upper floor. 

On another occasion, when firemen were injured, she volunteered, regardless of the danger from falling bombs, to go into the 

street to give first aid. Afterwards, on her own initiative she fought a fire in a Fire Station and prevented the flames from 

spreading. Driver Dewing has displayed great courage and devotion to duty. 


Frank GOODMAN, Auxiliary Fireman, London Fire Force 

Miss Kathleen PRETTEJOHN, Section Officer, 

During an air raid bombs demolished buildings The explosion severely damaged two fire appliances of a stationary convoy and 

members of the crews were killed and injured. Goodman, although his ear drum had been perforated by the blast and he was 

68

suffering badly from shock, immediately went to the assistance of his more seriously injured comrades. With the help of the 

uninjured members of the crews he worked unceasingly to remove the casualties and render first aid. 

Goodman then carried on fighting fires in the neighbourhood until he collapsed and had to be removed to a first-aid post for 

treatment. Members of the Women's Auxiliary Fire Service who were manning the control room at a Fire Station were badly 

shaken by the explosion, but they immediately volunteered to go out into the street to help the injured firemen. Under the 

leadership of Section Officer Prettejohn they rendered first aid and, notwithstanding the danger to which they were exposed, 

remained until the last casualty had been removed by ambulance. Section Officer Prettejohn then went to the Secondary Control 

and carried out her duties there. Her coolness, courage and leadership were an inspiration to those who worked with her. 

Samuel Frederick PRITCHARD, Acting Station Officer, London Fire Force, National Fire Service. (Supplement to the L/G 

35359, 28 th November 1941, pp. 6823.) 

Acting Station Officer Pritchard has attended numerous fires caused by enemy action on London. He has consistently shown 

courage and steadfastness of purpose, and, by his qualities of leadership, has set a fine example to the men under his command. 

During one air raid he entered a burning building and removed explosives to a place of safety and on other occasions has shown 

considerable resource and initiative in dealing with difficult situations. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Supplement to the L/G 35359, 28 th November 1941, pp. 7038.) 

Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct in Civil Defence: — 

Albert Edward CRUST, Auxiliary Fireman, London Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Miss Margaret Kathleen FRUIN, Auxiliary, London Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Henry William Kenneth KELLY, Junior Scientific Officer, Admiralty. 

Reginald Alfred MARKS, Auxiliary Fireman, London Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Benjamin Ernest Storey MITCHELL, Sub-Officer, London Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Miss Florence SAUNDERS, Nursing Sister (Civil Nursing Reserve), Rest Centre Service, London County Council. 

Miss Joan Audrey SHARP, Auxiliary, London Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

12 th December 1941. 

The King has been graciously pleased to give orders for the publication in the London Gazette of the names of the persons 

shown below as having received an expression of Commendation for brave conduct when fighting fires amongst burning 

ammunition — (Second Supplement to the L/G 35375, 12 th December 1941, pp. 7038.) 

The individual named below has been commended for brave conduct m Civil Defence – 

William Charles GRAVES, Fireman Dereham Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service). 

Bernard MASH, Installation Fitter, Marine Mountings Ltd. 

Ernest Goodwin RANSOM, Fireman, Dereham Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service). 

Awarded the George Medal:— — (Supplement to the L/G 35384, 19 th December 1941, pp. 7159.) 

John LAPPIN, Section Officer, Liverpool Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): — (Supplement to the L/G 35384, 19 th December 1941, pp. 7159.) 

Noel LANDUA, Section Officer, Liverpool Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Henry HODGE(S)*, Auxiliary Fireman, Liverpool Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

James ROACH, Auxiliary Fireman, Liverpool Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Enemy action caused a serious fire at a Dock in which a ship containing a quantity of explosive was berthed. 

The ship and large sheds alongside were burning furiously and bombs continued to fall all around. With full knowledge of the 

tremendous risk involved, an A.F.S. crew, under the leadership of. Section Officer Lappin, fought the shed fires in a gallant but 

vain effort to reach and save the blazing ship. 

The ship-eventually exploded causing many deaths, but the Section Officer rallied the men under his command and, although on 

the verge of collapse from fatigue, he continued to hold the situation. Lappin displayed a fine example of courage and devotion to 

duty and led his men without any regard for his own safety. 

Section Officer Landau, who showed bravery and unyielding devotion to duty, courageously obeyed all commands in the most 

nerve testing circumstances. Although he knew there would be a second explosion, Landau stayed on and attended to the removal 

of the dead and injured, personally rescuing many of the wounded and organizing their removal to hospital in improvised 

ambulances. 

Hodge, who turned out although he should have been resting, showed great devotion to duty and his courage inspired his 

colleagues to continue with their dangerous task. 

Roach was several times thrown over by blast from bombs, but he continued at his post throughout the night, working 

indefatigably until when the explosion occurred he was injured by blast and flying debris. 

*The above is printed as shown in the L/G. An erratum was published in the L/G 35410, pp. 182 reading;‖ The name of Henry 

Hodges, Auxiliary Fireman, Liverpool Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service) is as now described and not as stated in 

Gazette Second Supplement No. 35384, dated 19 th December, 1941, page 7159‖. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Supplement to the L/G 35384, 19 th December 1941, pp. 7160.) 

Miss Sheila Rosemary BENTLEY, Company Officer, London Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Company Officer Bentley has been on duty during nearly all the air-attacks on London and has at all times displayed great 

efficiency and devotion to duty. On one occasion when a Fire Station was almost entirely demolished by a bomb, she was on duty 

in the control room in the basement. The normal exit was blocked with debris but an emergency exit proved to be clear. After the 

69

Company Officer had assured herself that none of the women auxiliaries was injured she led them, notwithstanding heavy enemy 

activity, a distance of about one quarter of a mile to the secondary control station and in a very short time the service was being 

fully operated. 


Nellie, Mrs. MASON, Section Officer, London Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Section Officer Mason has been present at her post, even reporting for duty when on leave, on practically every occasion when 

enemy attack has necessitated action at her station. 

On three occasions when H.E. bombs exploded within a few yards of the Watchroom, Section Officer Mason set an example of 

cool courage to the women auxiliaries under her, and as a result, the control room continued to function with all possible 

efficiency. 


James Edmund, HAYES, Leader, (Not N.F.S.) Works Fire Brigade, The Liverpool Gas Company. 

During an air raid a large gas holder received a direct hit through the crown, which was almost completely stripped off, and the 

gas immediately caught fire. Mercer, who was about thirty-five yards away, received a severe shock: With utter disregard. for 

.his own safety and in the face of terrific heat from the flames, he forced his way into the Valve House, only fifteen feet from the 

blazing holder. With great presence of mind, he closed and opened valves, thus isolating the damaged holder. By directing jets of 

water on the fire and beating the flames down, Hayes prevented the flames setting fire to plant nearby. The courage and 

promptitude with which Mercer and Hayes dealt with the situation saved much valuable property from destruction. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Supplement to the L/G 35384, 19 th December 1941, pp. 7161.) 


John Richard UNWIN, B.E.M., District Officer, London Fire Force, National Fire Service. (for details of the award of the B.E.M. 

to District Officer Unwin, see L/G. 35058, 28-01-1941). 


To be An Additional Officers of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. (Supplement to the L/G. 

35399, 1 st January 1942. pp. 15.) 

Frederick Peter MILLS, Esq. Chief Officer, Durham and Northumberland Colleries, Fire and Rescue Brigade. 

Victor George MARTIN, Esq. Commandant, Manchester Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Alderman, Joseph Henry STARK, Honorary Commandant, Hull Auxiliary Fire Service. 

To be An Additional Members of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. (Supplement to the L/G. 

35399, 1 st January 1942. pp. 18.) 

Claud BALL, Esq. Divisional Officer, No 26 (Liverpool Area) N.F.S. 

Frank Leslie Pope CARTER, lately Chief Officer, Fire Brigade, Long Eaton, now Division Officer in the N.F.S. 

Francis CORBY Esq., lately, Chief Officer, Bedford Fire Brigade. 

Amy Elizabeth CROWN, Mrs Hammond, Senior Area Officer, No. 26 Area Liverpool Area, N.F.S. 

Reginald Fredericks LEEKS Esq., Commandant, Beckenham Fire Brigade. 

Harold William HUNT Esq. Deputy Fire Force Commander, No. 25 Stoke Area, N.F.S. 

Bailie James McINNES, Divisional Officer, and Principal Administration Officer, Western No. 1 Area, No 1 Fire Area, Scotland, 

for services to Civil Defence. 

Robert Thomas WYLIE, Deputy Fire Force Commander, South Eastern Fire Area, Scotland, for services to Civil Defence. 

His Majesty the King has been graciously pleased to award The Kings Police and Fire Service Medal to the undermentioned 

Officers:- (Supplement to the London G azette, 35399, 1 st January 1942, pp. 55./56) 

For Gallantry; 

Edward William Robert MORGAN, Temporary District Officer, London Fire Force. 

For Distinguished Service; 

Harry BLAKELY, Divisional Officer, London Fire Force (Ealing) 

Percy COLEMAN, Company Officer, (part time) No. 20 (Cardiff), Fire Area (Caerphilly). 

Charles ANGUS, formerly Firemaster, West Renfrewshire Fire Brigade. 

British Empire Medal (Civil Division). (Supplement to the L/G. 1 st January 1942. pp. 29.) 

Reginald ELSON. Company Officer, No. 19 Plymouth Area, National Fire Service. 


The individuals named below have been Commended for brave conduct in Civil Defence —(Second Supplement to the L/G 

35453, 13 th February 1942, pp. 707.) 

Robert Clyde RAINEY, Leading Fireman, Belfast Auxiliary Fire Service 

John WALSH, Patrol Officer, Belfast Auxiliary Fire Service 

Charles ANGUS, formerly Firemaster, West Renfrewshire Fire Brigade. 

70

To be Additional Officers of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire:—(Second Supplement to the 

L/G 35500, 27 th March 1942, pp. 1373.) 

Thomas Arthur VARLEY, Chief Regional Fire Officer, No. 8 (Wales) Region, National Fire Service. 

John FARRELL, Fire Force Commander, No. 22 (North Wales) Area, National Fire Service. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): — (Second Supplement to the L/G 35500, 27 th March 1942, pp. 1373) 

John Richard ALLEN, Company Officer, No. 22 (North Wales) Area, National Fire Service. 

Harold GRIMBLESDESTON, Senior Company Officer, No. 22 (North Wales) Area, National Fire Service. 

Leonard George HUGHES, Leading Fireman, No. 22 (North Wales) Area, National Fire Service. 

A tanker was making for port when she was hit by high explosive bombs and had to be abandoned. Varley gave preliminary 

instructions for men and material to be mobilised and then left for the port accompanied by Farrell and Grimblesdeston. 

The party reached the burning vessel and Varley, who fully appreciated the risk involved, went on board, quickly assessed the 

position, stationed the men and directed operations until the completely under control. The vessel and its valuable cargo were 

saved through the co-operative and excellent team work of the fire fighting personnel under the competent and courageous 

leadership of Chief Regional Fire Officer Varley. 

Farrell assisted in the supervision of operations and remained throughout the incident setting a splendid example to his officers 

and men. Hughes worked at a point of great danger and had to contend with intense heat and smoke from a burning tank which 

was less than ten feet away. The decks were too hot for him to stand upon and an improvised foothold of pieces of rough timber 

was his only protection. The soles of his boots were actually burnt owing to the intensity of the heat. He remained at his post 

without seeking relief or help of any kind for a considerable period. 

Grimbledeston planned and maintained the supply of foam under most trying conditions. Without any regard for his personal 

safety, he descended below deck up to his waist in water to combat a fire. 

Allen, although of limited experience, mobilised the equipment on hand and volunteered to go out to sea and ascertain the best 

form of assistance the National Fire Service could render. He showed courage and initiative and, in difficult conditions, took the 

correct preliminary steps to tackle the fire pending the arrival of his superior officers. 

To be An Additional Member of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (Second Supplement to the 

L/G. 35500, 27 th March 1942. pp. 1373/4.) 

Harold William HEPTINSTALL, B.E.M. Acting Chief Fire Officer, 

Thurrock Urban District Council Fire Brigade (now Divisional Officer, National Fire Service). 

During an enemy air attack, bombs caused severe damage to tanks of oil and spirit which ignited. While the fires were being 

fought the enemy attacked with machine-guns and further bombs were dropped on the site. Heptinstall, who was in charge of the 

fire fighting operations, climbed on to a portion of a damaged holder which had been blown against a burning spirit tank and 

directed a foam jet into the fire. His leadership encouraged his men to take up positions and the fire was eventually extinguished. 

Heptinstall showed courage without regard for his own safety. It was not until the fires were put out and he had seen his men 

safely away that he disclosed that he had been injured by the blast of an explosion. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Second Supplement to the L/G 35500, 27 th March 1942, pp. 1374.) 

Henry John HARVEY, Section Officer, Thurrock Urban District Council Fire Brigade (now Company Officer, National Fire 


William Henry MONK, Station Officer, Thurrock Urban District Council Fire Brigade (now Column Officer, National Fire 


A tanker was damaged by enemy action and the ignited spirit sprayed a considerable distance on shore and over the water, 

endangering an oil works. Despite the terrific heat and continued air activity Harvey, in charge of two Fire Floats, endeavoured to 

close in on the fire. After several attempts he was able to fasten a wire line round a dolphin and creep towards the tanker bringing 

his monitor to work to cool down the ship. Regardless of the danger, Harvey boarded the burning vessel and altered the valves in 

order to allow any surplus spirit or gases to escape. 

Later, assisted by Monk, he manoeuvred the valves so that the forward hatch could be flooded. Despite the obvious risks, the 

efforts of these men were not relaxed until their task was completed. Whilst they were aboard a violent explosion occurred and it 

was with difficulty that they escaped down the fire hose dangling from the ship's side. Monk was in charge of the fire fighting 

operations on the shore. In spite of machinegun attacks, the fires which started among oil tanks were quickly extinguished. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Second Supplement to the L/G 35500, 27 th March 1942, pp. 1374.) 


Claud BALL, M.B.E., Deputy Fire Force Commander, Divisional Officer, No. 22 (North Wales) Area, National Fire Service. 

Frederick William FOORD, Fireman, Thurrock Urban District Council Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service). 

Frank Walter GRANT, Sub Officer, Thurrock Urban District Council Fire Brigade (now Chief Officer, Works Fire Brigade, 

Leyland, Lancs.). 

Herbert LAZELL, Station Officer, Thurrock Urban District Council Fire Brigade (now Company Officer, National Fire Service). 

James Henry LEE, Fireman, Thurrock Urban District Council Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service). 

Alfred Arthur MASON, Fireman, Thurrock Urban District Council Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service). 

Maldwyn ROBERTS, Fireman, No. 22 (North Wales) Area, National Fire Service. 

Air Ministry, 21st April, 1942. 

ROYAL AIR FORCE. 

71

The KING has been graciously pleased to approve the following award in recognition of brave conduct:— 

Military Medal. (Supplement to the L/G 35531, 21 st April 1942, pp. 1752.) 

1100752 Sergeant James Sidney DEWHURST. 

Sergeant Dewhurst has on many occasions displayed great bravery and indifference to danger during enemy bombing raids. 

While in charge of the fire fighting party, he has been responsible for saving many aircraft from destruction during continuous 

bombing. On one occasion in March, 1942, he saved the crew of a burning aircraft. Some days later, he extinguished the flames 

of burning aircraft in circumstances of considerable danger. Sergeant Dewhurst has always displayed outstanding devotion to 

duty. 

Clearly, not a ‗fire brigade‘ award. Included here to remind us that while the number of fires on the ‗home front‘ was declining at 

this time an increasing number of aircraft attacks, often by only a few enemy aircraft on military continued. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Third Supplement to the L/G 35534, Friday 24 th April 1942, pp. 1806. ) 

Betty Marion Louise, Mrs. FRYER, lately Auxiliary, London Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During the period of intensive bombing of London, Mrs. Fryer attended many large fires. On numerous occasions in dangerous 

conditions, she helped to lay out hose and extinguish fires, distributed petrol supplies and refreshments for Fire Force personnel 

and, in the absence of despatch riders, she carried out the duty of transmitting messages. Throughout she displayed courage, 

coolness and an outstanding devotion to duty. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Third Supplement to the L/G 35534, Friday 24 th April 1942, pp. 1806. ) 

Harry HARRIS, Section Officer, Hendon Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Cyril Harris DAVIS, Acting Patrol Officer, Hendon Auxiliary Fire Service (now Leading Fireman, National Fire Service). 

For brave conduct in hazardous circumstances. 


Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct in Civil Defence:—(Third Supplement to the L/G 35534, Friday 

24 th April 1942, pp. 1806. ) 

Douglas BIRD, Auxiliary Fireman, London Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

George Henry MERCER, Temporary Fireman, London Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service). 

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 35143, 25 th April 1942, pp. 2337.) 

Andrew Nures NABARRO, Leading Fireman, Portsmouth Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Houses were demolished by a high explosive bomb, and fires broke out. Two people were trapped beneath the debris in which a 

gas main was -burning furiously. Nabarro took charge of the operations and, despite great danger from collapsing buildings, the 

people were rescued and the fires brought under control. It was entirely due to Nabarro's courageous efforts that the lives of these 

persons were saved. He then went to other fires and showed initiative in finding and organising water supplies. This resulted in 

the saving of much valuable property. 

Awarded the George Medal:—(Supplement to the L/G. 35143, Friday, 25 th April 1942, pp. 2338) 

George Henry WRIGHT, Patrol Officer. Plymouth Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Cyril George LIDSTONE, Leading Fireman. Plymouth Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During an intense enemy air raid on Plymouth a large petrol tank was set alight. The roof was well down in the tank and to reach 

it was necessary to scale a steel stairway on the outside of the tank and then descend a steel ladder to a depth of thirty two feet 

inside the tank.. The petrol was well ablaze around the sealing ring, between the rim of the roof and the tank wall. With the 

contents of the tank so low the possibility of an explosion became a very serious contingency. Patrol Officer Wright and Leading 

Fireman Lidstone hauled up hose and, foam equipment to the hauled up hose and, foam equipment to the platform on top of the 

outside stairway. Wright, without hesitation, then descended the inner ladder to the roof and started his attack on the fire. 

He made gallant efforts to extinguish; the flames, but was not able to complete the circuit without assistance. Lidstone 

immediately descended to the roof and with his help the fire was successfully overcome. These men showed great gallantry, as 

they were fully aware of the possibility of an explosion which would have cost them their lives. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 35143, Friday, 25 th April 1942.) 

Stanley Charles GREEN, Auxiliary Fireman, Birmingham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

When four people were trapped in a partly demolished house, Auxiliary Fireman Green helped by Wardens Garvey and Goodwin, 

moved large quantities of debris until a hole was made through which the victims could be rescued. The conditions under which 

the rescue party worked were very hazardous. The roof and walls were likely to collapse at any moment and there was a heavy 

air raid in progress, but after three hours continuous work the casualties were extricated. (The two wardens were similarly 

awarded.) 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 35143, Friday, 25 th April 1942, pp.2341.) 

Miss Rosalie GASSMAN, Telephonist Watchroom Attendant, Hornsey Women's Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Miss Gassmah was on duty in; the Watchroom of an Auxiliary Fire Service Station when the building was damaged by, a bomb. 

In spite of the falling debris she remained calmly at her post transmitting arid receiving messages. Her coolness and devotion to 

duty were exemplary, 

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Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 35143, Friday, 25 th April 1942, pp. 2342. ) 

Charles Reginald RUSSELL, Acting Divisional Officer, Portsmouth Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Acting Divisional Officer Russell was in charge of an Auxiliary Fire Station which was wrecked by a high explosive bomb. He 

was buried beneath the debris. Two members of his staff were killed and others injured. Mr. Russell assisted in extricating the 

injured persons in spite of his own injuries. 

He remained on duty during the next forty eight hours and it was largely due to his ability and example that such splendid team 

work was displayed by the officers and men of his division. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 35143, Friday, 25 th April 1942, pp. 2342. ) 

Gerald Frederick WHEELER., Auxiliary Fireman, Portsmouth Auxiliary Fire Service. 

During an air raid Wheeler was severely wounded in the left leg and was advised to report to the First Aid Party for immediate 

treatment and removal to hospital. He did not do this, however, but carried on with his duties on the mobile dam, although it was 

obvious that he was in great pain. He removed two mobile dams from alongside blazing premises at some personal risk, as the 

buildings were in a state of collapse. A block of three-storey buildings was on fire and Wheeler continued to relay water to this 

site for two and a half hours. He then collapsed. But for his brave efforts many valuable buildings would have been destroyed. 


Those named below have been brought to notice for brave conduct in Civil Defence:— (Supplement to the L/G 35143, Friday 

25 th April 1942. pp. 2342/3.) 

Fred EMERSON, Leading Fireman, Salford Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Frederick William FOORD, Auxiliary Fireman, Thurrock Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Frank Walter GRANT, Sub Officer, Thurrock Fire Brigade. 

Henry HARVEY, Section Officer, Thurrock Fire Brigade. 

Herbert LARSEN, Fireman, Thurrock Fire Brigade. 

Frederick William MARSHALL (deceased), Auxiliary Fireman, Portsmouth Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Albert MAYNE, Section Officer, Birmingham Auxiliary Fire Service. 

William John MEGRAN, Pupil Fireman, Thurrock Brigade. 

Percy Norman VALENTINE, Auxiliary Fireman, Thurrock Auxiliary Fire Service. 

Harry James WHITEMAN (deceased), Police Constable, Portsmouth Police Fire Brigade. 

Roy WILLIAMSON, Chief Officer, Thurrock Fire Brigade. 

John WRIGHT, Sub Officer, Thurrock Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Third Supplement to the L/G 35534, Friday 24 th April 1942. pp. 1806.) 

Harry HARRIS, Section Officer, Hendon Auxiliary Fire Service, (now National Fire Service). 

Cyril Harris DAVIS, Acting Patrol Officer, Hendon Auxiliary Fire Service (now Leading Fireman, National Fire Service). 


Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct in Civil Defence:—(Third Supplement to the L/G 35534, Friday 

24 th April 1942. pp. 1806.) 

Douglas BIRD, Auxiliary Fireman London Auxiliary Fire Service, (now National Fire Service). 

George Henry MERCER, Temporary Fireman, London Fire Brigade, (now National Fire Service). 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): — (Supplement to the L/G, 35548, 8 th May 1942, pp. 2015.) 

Miss Catherine MUNRO, Chargewoman, Powder Factory, Imperial Chemical Industries Limited. 

Miss Munro was loading a car with powder when she saw a flame issue from under the floor boards of the powder house. She 

sent her assistant to telephone for the Fire Brigade and, with a small hose, she returned to the compartment where the fire had 

developed. She played water on it until the Fire Brigade arrived. Close beside the fire was an uncovered car containing powder 

and although the fire spread to this she did not give up but continued to fight the flames. There was in the house at the time a large 

quantity of powder in a highly inflammable condition. By her prompt action the fire was kept under control until the arrival of the 

Fire Brigade. The damage to the house was negligible and work was resumed within twenty-four hours. Miss Munro showed 

courage without regard for her own safety being well aware of the possible consequences of the fire. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the undermentioned awards of the George Medal and of the British 

Empire Medal and for the publication in the London Gazette of the names of the persons specially shown below as having 

received an expression of Commendation for their brave conduct in Civil Defence: 

Awarded the George Medal:—(Supplement to the L/G 35581, 5 th June 1942, pp. 2419.) 

Sidney William BARNES, Superintendent, 

London Fire Brigade (now Assistant Fire Force Commander, London Fire Force, (National Fire Service) 

Superintendent Barnes has displayed outstanding ability, leadership and tenacity in organising and supervising the fire-fighting 

operations in his command. His conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty throughout the whole of' the period of heavy bombing 

were an inspiring example to his men .and as a result many serious fires were prevented from spreading. A warehouse containing 

tons, of spices and essential oils, was fired by incendiary bombs. Below the warehouse was a vault covering several acres and 

housing over a thousand tons of rubber. 

Superintendent Barnes collected a party of A.F.S. men, led them up a blazing staircase and directed the fire-fighting from the top 

floor until he was nearly overcome by the dense smoke and rising fumes. Although the building was gutted the vault and rubber 

73

were saved. On another occasion a bomb set fire to a warehouse which supported on its fourth floor a- large iron bridge weighing 

many tons. Superintendent Barnes took charge and conducted the fire-fighting from one of the upper floors. Whilst he was so 

engaged the iron bridge, together with a partitioning wall, suddenly collapsed within a few yards of where he was standing. This 

however, did not deter him and, although heavy bombing continued, he remained at his post until the fire, was under control. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal, (Civil Division):—(Supplement the L/G 35581, 5 th June 1942, pp. 2419.) 

Carmel CASSAR, Reserve Police Constable, Malta Police Fire Brigade. 

Manuel FENECH, Police Constable, Malta Police Fire Brigade. 

The Brigade was endeavouring to extinguish a fire in a merchant vessel, when a heavy air raid developed on the harbour. 

Members of the crew of a dockyard firefloat, lying alongside the vessel, jumped overboard and swam for the shore. One man 

became exhausted when about ten yards from the vessel and about seventy-five yards from the shore.and clung to a pole in the 

water. Police Constables Fenech and Cassar swam back to the place and brought him to land. Shell splinters from the barrage 

were still falling and ammunition, which formed part of the cargo of the vessel, was exploding continuously. The Constables 

showed courage without regard for their own safety, being fully aware of the risk of a large, explosion of ammunition and petrol. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 35581, 5 th June 1942, pp. 2419.) 

Peter COUPLAND, Second Officer, Orpington Fire Brigade (now Column Officer, London Fire Force, National Fire Service). .' 

Mr. Coupland was ordered to Bristol with a contingent of men. On arrival he was instructed to take over a very difficult fire 

situation in the centre of the City. This he handled with great efficiency although it was not possible to obtain any relief for him 

and his men for many hours. A further raid took place that night and, although he and his crews had only been relieved two hours 

previously, Mr. Coupland immediately volunteered to take his men to another part of the City which has been badly affected. In a 

very exhausted condition, he continued on duty for a further period of twenty-six hours. 

Mr. Coupland showed courage and devotion to duty in very difficult circumstances. 

COMMENDATIONS:— (Supplement to the L/G 35581, 5 th June 1942, pp. 2420.) 


Frederick James BATES, lately Fireman, Thurrock Fire Brigade (now Private No. 6030546, Essex Regiment). 

Robert Samuel BEAVERS, Leader, Civil Defence First Aid Party Service, Lowestoft. 

Eric Odam KILHAM, Leader, Civil Defence First Aid Party Service, Lowestoft. 

Percy Norman VALENTINE, Leading Fireman, Thurrock Fire Brigade (now National Fire Service). 

The KING has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration of His Majesty's Birthday, to signify his intention of 

conferring the Honour of Knighthood upon the following:— (Second Supplement to the L/G 35586, 11th June 1942, pp. 2475.) 

Robert Bryce WALKER, Esq., C.B.E., Chairman of the Scottish Fire Commission. Commissionerfor the Special Areas in 

Scotland. 

To be Additional Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:—(Second Supplement to the L/G. 35586, 

11 th June 1942, pp. 2489.) 

Frederick William DELVE, Esq., Deputy Inspector- in-Chief, National Fire Service. 

To be Additional Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: — (Second Supplement to the L/G. 35586, 11 th 

June 1942, pp. 2490.) 

Percy Pickersgill BOOTH, Esq., Chief Regional Fire Officer, No. 2 (North Eastern) Region, National Fire Service. 

Alfred John BRIDLE, Esq., Fire Force Commander, No. 23 (Worcester) Area, National Fire Service. 

Francis DANN, Esq., Fire Force Commander, No. 27 (Manchester) Area, National Fire Service. 

James Taylor DAVIDSON, Esq., Assistant Fire Force Commander, Western No.1 Area, Scotland, National Fire Service. 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: —(Second Supplement to the L/G. 35586, 11 th 

June 1942, pp. 2492/3.) 

Benjamin BENTLEY, Esq., Divisional Officer No. 4 (Leeds) Area Headquarters, National Fire Service. 

Sidney Frederick HARDIE, Esq., Column Officer, North Eastern Area of Scotland, National Fire Service. 

Edwin Beaumont HARRINGTON, Esq., Divisional Officer, No. 8 (Nottingham) Area, National Fire Service. 

Joseph Young KIRKUP, Esq., lately Assistant Fire Force Cmder, No. 17 (Bristol) Area, National Fire Service. 

Samuel Barnaby MANNING, Esq., Column Officer No. 12 (Cambridge) Area, National Fire Service. 

Miss Joyce POWRIE, Senior Area Officer, attached to No. 10 (Manchester) Regional H/Q, National Fire Service. 

Henry Alfred SHORTER, Esq., Senior Company Officer, No. 30 (East Kent) Area, National Fire Service. 


11 th June, 1942. 

The KING has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration of His Majesty's Birthday, to approve of the 

following awards of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned: — 

(Second Supplement to the L/G. 35586, 11 th June 1942, pp. 2503.) 

Elizabeth Joyce, Mrs. Shillington GATHER, Woman Auxiliary, London Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

William Edward FRANKLIN, Company Officer, No. 12 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

Charles Henry GIBBINS, Part-time Company Officer, National Fire Service. 

74

Frederick William Arthur GOODCHILD, Fireman, British Overseas Airways Corporation. 

Charles Henry GOODY, Auxiliary Fireman, Despatch Rider, London Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

William Lee HOGG, Part-time Firemaster, Haddington Fire Brigade. 

Leonard Evelyn LOWINGS, Company Officer, No. 30 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service 

The KING has been graciously pleased to award the King's Police and Fire Services Medal to the undermentioned Officers: — 

(Second Supplement to the L/G. 35586, 11 th June 1942, pp. 2530.) 

FOR GALLANTRY. Fire Services: England and Wales. 

Albert Edward BUTTERWORTH, Leading Fireman, No. 27 (Manchester) Fire Area. 

Wilfred ATHERTON, Fireman (Professional), No. 26 (Liverpool) Fire Area (St. Helens). 

FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE. Fire Services: England and Wales. 

Henry MARDON, Fire Force Commander, No. 2 (Middlesbrough) Fire Area. 

Fire Services: Scotland. 

William James PATERSON, Fire Inspector, Grade I, Scottish Home Department. 


Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct in Civil Defence: —(Third Supplement to the London Gazette, 

35635, 17 th July 1942, pp. 3152). 

Frederick Arthur BROWN, Leading Fireman, No. 13 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

Edwin Walter CLAYBYN, Leading Fireman, No. 13 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

Arthur James CLOVER, Leading Messenger Boy, No. 13 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

George CROSSLAND, Head Warden, Civil Defence Wardens Service, Birkenhead. 

George Robert LEE, Column Officer, No. 13 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division).—(Fourth supplement to the L/G. 35651, 31 st July 1942, pp. 3363.) 

George Arthur RYDER, Chief Officer, Works Fire Brigade, Kingston-upon-Hull. 

A bomb damaged a building and fractured water and gas supply pipes. Mr. Ryder helped several people to safety and carried an 

aged lady to a First Aid Post. 

He forced his way through wreckage, girders and live electric wires and turned off the water valve. He then entered the wrecked 

building and found that the upper floor had collapsed over the main gas valve. He crawled underneath the fallen roof and 

managed to reach the valve and turn off the escaping gas. He managed to crawl back through the building and almost immediately 

collapsed from the effect of the coal gas. Ryder showed courage and devotion to duty without regard for his own safety. 


Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct in .Civil Defence: —(Fourth supplement to the L/G.35651, 31 st 

July 1942, pp.3363.) 

Frank George ELKINS, Section Leader; No. 13 Fire Force Area, National -Fire Service. 

Hetty ROGERS, Firewoman, No. 1 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

(pp. 3364). For brave conduct when rescuing the pilot of an aircraft which had made a forced landing on the sea. 

Richard Hamilton SKINNER, Fireman, South East Area, Scotland, National Fire Service. 

To be an Additional Member of the -Most.Excellent Order of the British Empire (Civil Division): —(Fourth Supplement to the 

L.G. 35663, 14 th August 1942, pp. 3564). 

William COLLOW, Divisional Officer, No. 13 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

During enemy .air attacks on Norwich, Divisional Officer Collow continuously led his Officers and men, always going ahead 

himself, and at all times displayed cool, calculated courage and magnificent determination. He led the various units right up to 

the actual points where they were detailed to operate and set a courageous example, under the direct hazards of exploding bombs. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):—(Third Supplement to the L/G. 35683, 28 th August 1942, pp. 3769.) 

James William WALLER Senior Company Officer (Norwich), No. 13 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

During an air raid Mr. Waller displayed remarkable courage, skill and determination in leading his men and succeeded in bringing 

into operation a total of 57 relay lines of hose, thereby ensuring substantial water supplies without which it wold have been 

impossible to combat the fires. 

COMMENDATIONS.—(Third Supplement to the L/G 35683, 28 th August 1942, pp. 3770.) 


James Jameson LEE, Fireman, Belfast Auxiliary Fire Service 

Oliver William MARKWELL, Leading Fireman, (Ipswich), .No. 13 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Fourth Supplement the L/G 35700, 11 th September 1942. pp. 3970. ) 

Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct. 

When an ammunition lorry caught fire: — 

Russell SNELLING, Fireman (Thetford) No. 13 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

Horatio Edward Daniel TURNER, Company Officer, (Mildenhall) No. 13 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

75

Awarded the British Empire Medal, (Civil Division). (Fourth Supplement to the L/G 35718, 25 September 1942, pp. 4173.) 

William Malcolm HALL, Leading Fireman (Exeter), No. 19 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

Leonard Hilary Walton TURNER, Leader, First Aid Party, Civil Defence Casualty Service, Exeter. 

A large building was hit by a bomb and demolished and five men were buried in the debris. Fires broke out and there was 

imminent danger of the collapse of a high wall which separated the building from office premises. 

The Fire Brigade and a First Aid Party arrived and Hall and Turner commenced rescue operations. A hose was used as a cover for 

the two men who worked amongst burning debris, in heat and smoke which were almost unbearable, for nearly an hour. The work 

was carried out within six feet of the base of the tottering wall and it was due to the tenacity and courage of Hall and Turner that 

one man was rescued alive. 


Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct in Civil Defence: —(Fourth Supplement to the L/G. 35718, 25 th 

September 1942, pp. 4173.) 

Lionel John GOULD, Leading Fireman (Exeter), No. 19 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

Alfred William MATTHEWS, Fireman (Exeter), No. 19 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

Fred Walter WILSON, Leading Fireman (Exeter), No. 19 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

9 th October, 1942. 


Empire Medal, and for the publication in the London Gazette of the name of the person specially shown below as having 

received an expression of Commendation for brave conduct: —(Third Supplement to the L/G. 35737, 9 th October 1942, pp. 

4392.) 

Awarded the George Medal:— (Third Supplement to the L/G 35737 9 th October 1942, pp. 4392.) 

George RICHARDSON, lately Company Officer (acting Column Officer) (Jarrow), No. 1 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

Francis James McNULTY, Master Stevedore, South Shields. 

A fire broke out on board a ship, carrying a cargo of fuel oil, that had been beached. The fire burned furiously and the vessel's 

magazine was threatened. It became apparent that, unless the ammunition was immediately thrown overboard, serious damage 

would result. Knowing full well the risk of the ammunition exploding, Richardson and McNulty, who volunteered to assist, 

entered the ship, which was full of smoke, and groped their way along the alley leading to the magazine where the fire was gaining 

increased hold. As they got near to the magazine a major explosion occurred throwing them violently to the deck. A second 

explosion immediately followed and the men were blown several feet. Richardson and McNulty were severely burned and 

otherwise injured. Although still 

within the danger zone of further explosions Richardson, disregarding his own injuries, helped a fireman, who had also been 

injured by the explosion, up the ladder to the main deck. 

Both men showed great courage and resolution in their attempt to save the ship and its valuable cargo. 

COMMENDATION. (Third Supplement to the L/G. 35737, 9 th October 1942, pp. 4392.) 

The individual named below has been Commended for brave conduct when helping to remove ammunition from a burning 

ship: 

George William McGREGOR (deceased), Divisional Officer (Newcastle-on-Tyne), No. 1 Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

The individual named below have been Commended for brave conduct in Civil Defence: —(Third supplementto the L/G. 35792, 

20 th November 1942, pp. 5053.) 

Margaret Dorothy CASHMORE, Firewoman, National Fire Service (No. 17 Area), Weston-super-Mare. 


Empire Medal, and for the publication in the London Gazette of the name of the person specially shown below as having 

received an expression of Commendation for brave conduct: — 

COMMENDATIONS. (Second Supplement to the L/G 35285, 26 th November 1942, pp. 5885.) 

George Stanley TURNER, Patrol Officer, Bootle Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service) 

John WINSHIP, Acting Leading Fireman, Hull Auxiliary Fire Service (now National Fire Service). 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) (Fourth Supplement to the L/G 35828, 18 th December 1942, pp. 5519.) 

Walter STARK, Section Leader, No. 20 (Cardiff) Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

A fire broke out in a merchant ship when she was at sea. The fire got out of hand and, as there was danger of the magazine 

exploding, that section of the ship was battened down. On docking, N.F.S. personnel boarded the ship wearing breathing 

apparatus and Section Leader Stark went into the burning quarters with a jet. There was constant danger, particularly as the 

compartments were opened up and air admitted, of the contents of the magazine exploding, but despite this, Stark showed great 

courage and worked, regardless of his safety, to ensure that the fire should be put out. His efforts undoubtedly saved further 

damage to the ship which, as a result was quickly repaired and made seaworthy. 

COMMENDATIONS. — (Fourth Supplement to the L/G 35828, 18 th December 1942, pp. 5519.) 

When fighting a fire in a ship: 

The individuals named below have been Commended for brave conduct: — 

Charles Norman BIDGOOD, Company Officer, No. 20 (Cardiff) Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

76

Francis Alfred Pellow INGRAM, Leading Fireman, No. 20 (Cardiff) Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 

William VOYCE, Leading Fireman, No. 20 (Cardiff) Fire Force Area, National Fire Service. 


St. James's Palace, S.W.I. 1st January, 1943. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the following promotions in, and appointments to, the Most Excellent 

Order of the British Empire: — (Second Supplement to the L/G 35841, 1 st January 1943, pp.16.) 

To be Additional Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— . 

Bernard Anson WESTBROOK, Esq., O.B.E., Chief Regional Fire Officer, No. 9 (Midland) Region. 

Chief Technical Adviser to the Fire Service Department, Home Office. 


The KING has been pleased to award the King's Police and Fire Services Medal to the undermentioned Officers: (Second 

Supplement to the L/G 35841, 1 st January 1943, pp. 54. 


Thomas Henry BARKER, Fire -Force Commander, No! 6 (Hull) Fire Area. 

Arthur NETHERWOOD, Fire Force Commander, No. 9 (Leicester) Fire Area: 

William Thomson. SOPER, Divisional Officer, No. 11 (Southend) Fire Area. 

Harry Thomas JOHNSON, Company Officer (part-time), No. 41 (Warrington) Fire Area. 


James Turner NICHOLSON, Column .Officer, South-Eastern Fire Area. 

To be Additional Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Fourth Supplement to the L/G 35843, 4th 

January 1943, pp. 63/4.) 

Lawrence Edward COLEMAN, Esq., Fire Force Commander, North-Eastern Area of Scotland. 

Betty Wake, Mrs. CUTHBERT, Chief Woman Fire Officer, National Fire Service. 

Errington McKINNELL, Esq., Fire Force Commander, No. 3 Area, National Fire Service. 

Albert Walter Alexander PARAMOR, Esq., Director of Studies, National Fire Service College. 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Fourth Supplement to the L/G 35843, 4th 

January 1943, pp. 67.) 

Bernard Anthony CHRISTMAS, Esq., Senior Staff Officer (Divisional Officer), South-Western Region, National Fire Service. 

John Bernard CRABBE, Esq., Divisional Officer, Northern Region, National Fire Service. 

John Edward .FARRELL, .Esq., Assistant Fire Force Commander, No. 27 Area, National Fire Service; 

Lawrence Bernard KEAN, Esq., Divisional Officer, No. 9 Area, National Fire Service. 

Walter John MALSTER, Esq., Divisional Officer, No. 12 Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Reginald Edwin Arthur ROPER, Esq., Column Officer, No. 30 Area, National Fire Service. 

Victor Hugh SPRY, Esq., Divisional Officer, National Fire Service (Northern Ireland). 

Wallace Edward WHITEHOUSE, Esq., Divisional Officer, Wales Region, National Fire Service. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to approve of the award of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the 

undermentioned:— (Fourth Supplement to the L/G 35843, 4th January 1943, pp. 71/2.) 

Geoffrey Noble BARRETT, .Senior Company Officer, No. 13 (Norwich) Area, National Fire Service. 

Harry HAWKINS, Section Leader, No. 30 (East-Kent) Area, National Fire Service. 

Charles MATKIN, Company Officer, No. 9 (Leicester) Area, National Fire Service. 

Ernest Henry John MIZEN, Senior Company Officer, No. 17 (Bristol) Area, National Fire Service. 

William George POLYBLANK, Fireman, No. 35 Area, London Formation, National Fire Service. 

James Henry WEST, Fireman, No. 37 Area, London Formation, National Fire Service. 

Ellen Sarah, Mrs. TERRY, Firewoman, No. 30 (East -Kent) .Area, National :Fire Service. (For her devotion to duty during 

enemy raids on Canterbury. A cake-maker in ‘civvy street‘. ) 

William Watson YOUNG, Section Leader, (Brechin), National Fire Service. 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire:—(Fourth Supplement to the 

London Gazette 35937, 12 th March 1943, pp. 1197.) 

Eric SHAW, Works Chemist, Manchester. 

Walter FLEETWOOD, Divisional Officer, No. 27 (Manchester) Area, National Fire Service. 

A dangerous fire broke out at a chemical works. Mr. Shaw took charge of the firefighting operations until the arrival of the 

National Fire Service, and entered the burning building to undertake the dangerous task of isolating material liable to explode. 

Divisional Officer Fleetwood, who displayed a masterly grasp of the situation, gave a very fine lead to the men working with him. 

Shaw and Fleetwood showed great courage and, by their prompt actions, prevented the fire from reaching more alarming and 

disastrous proportions. 

77

To be an Additional Member of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire:— 

Charles RICHARDS, Divisional Officer, No. 21 (Carmarthen) Area, National Fire Service. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division}:—(Fourth Supplement to the L/G 35937 12 th March 1943. pp.1197.) 

John William Edmunds JONES, Senior Company Officer, Regional H.Q. (Cardiff), National Fire Service. 

A fire broke out in a ship conveying a cargo including munitions, twelve hours before its arrival in port. All efforts of the Master 

and crew to check the fire proved to no avail. A call for .assistance was made to the National Fire Service but operational fire 

fighting was not feasible until the ship arrived .in harbour. Richards displayed great initiative and leadership and was responsible 

for the prompt attendance of reinforcing fire appliances and special equipment. At considerable personal risk, wearing breathing 

apparatus, he entered the affected hold in a courageous and persistent effort to locate the fire, he was overcome and had to be 

rescued from a very dangerous situation but on recovery from partial asphyxiation he made attempts to continue his work. Jones 

was one of the breathing, apparatus team which entered the burning hold. After a feat of considerable physical effort and skill, 

fraught with great danger, he located the fire. In the darkness, and in thick smoke and fumes, he climbed through very awkward 

places where any false move might have cost him his life. Rescue would have been impossible, as there was not a passage for 

more than one person at a time. His skill and daring were responsible for the fire in that hold being confined and held in check 

until such time as if could be extinguished. He discovered another fire which was amongst highly inflammable and dangerous 

explosives. This also was put out. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Fourth Supplement to the L/G 35937, 12 th March 1943. pp. 1198.) 

Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct in dangerous circumstances : — 

Hector BRACKENBRIDGE, Fireman, No. 27 (Manchester) Area, National Fire Service. 

Robert DEAN; Works Fireman, Manchester. 

Edward LIMBERT, Leading Fireman, No. 27 (Manchester) Area, National Fire Service. 

John Thomas READE; Fireman, Works Fire Brigade, Manchester. 

Edgar John THOMAS, Section Leader, No. 21 (Swansea), National Fire Service. 

Archibald Hewitt WARREN, Company Officer, No. 27 (Manchester) Area, National Fife Service. 

John WOOD, Chief Fireman, Works Fife Brigade, Manchester. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Supplement to the L/G 36021, 21 st May 1943, pp. 2246.) 


Albert Henry TUCKER Leading Fireman, No. 19 (Devon) Area, National Fire Service. 

The KING has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration of His Majesty's Birthday, to give orders for the 

following promotions in, and appointments to, the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: — 

To be Additional Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:—O.B.E.(Fourth Supplement to the L/G 36035, 

Friday 4 th June 1943, pp. 2492.) 

Peter DUNN, Esq., Fire Staff Officer, Grade I, Scottish Region, National Fire Service. 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— M.B.E. (Fourth Supplement to the L/G 

36035, Friday 4 th June 1943, pp. 2495.) 

Stephen France BURMAN, Esq., Divisonal Officer, Midland Region, National Fire Service, 

Moses Harry DUXBURY, Esq., Divisional Officer No. 29 Area, National Fire Service. 

Nest Jessie, Mrs. STONEHAM, Supervisor of Women's Studies, National Fire Service College. 

William Anthony Graham WATSON, Esq., Divisional Officer, No. 5 Fire Area, National Fire Service. 

The KING has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration of His Majesty's Birthday, to approve the award of 

the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned. 

B.E.M. (Fourth Supplement to the L/G 36035, Friday 4 th June 1943, pp. 2499/2501/3/4) 

Leslie Richmond BROWN, Company Officer, No. 12 (Cambridge) Area, National Fire Service 

Francis Charles COBBLEDICK, Senior Company Officer, No. 19 (Plymouth) Area, National Fire Service. 

Robert J. HEATHWOOD, Company Officer, National Fire Service, Northern Ireland. 

Thomas Inglis Russell MELVILLE, Section-Leader, Western (No. 2) Area, Scotland, National Fire Service. 

Gordon Stuart Straite MURRAY, Fireman, No. 37 Fire Area, National Fire Service. 

Miss Mabel SADLER, Leading Firewoman, No. 34 Fire Area, National Fire Service. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement the L/G 36049, 11 th June 1943, pp. 2666.) 

William John SHEAD, Police Sergeant, H.M. Dockyard, Malta. 

Sergeant Shead has rendered excellent service at many of the fires attended by the Dockyard Fire Brigade under conditions of 

danger from explosion and bombing. On one occasion a petrol-vapour fire broke out on a merchant vessel and rapidly assumed 

serious proportions. Shead immediately volunteered to descend into the ship's hold wearing breathing apparatus. He did so and 

remained at the bottom of the hold until the fire was extinguished. By his consistent good work he has been an example and 

inspiration to the other members of the Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Second Supplement to the L/G 36093, 16th July 1943, pp. 3215.) 

Robert HOWARTH, M.M., Company Officer, National Fire Service. 

78

A fire broke out in a building in which ammunition was stored, small arms ammunition began to explode in very large quantities, 

and the firemen fighting the fire were in considerable danger. Company Officer Howarth, although injured by a minor explosion, 

refused to be taken away, and carried on with his duties as Officer in Charge. He was subsequently blown up by a major 

explosion which resulted in severe body injuries of a permanent nature. 

Howarth showed courage and great devotion to duty and set a splendid example to his men. 


Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct: — (Second Supplement to the L/G 36093, 16th July 1943, pp. 

3215.) 

When fighting a fire amongst ammunition : — 

Walter SUNDERLAND (deceased), Fireman, National Fire Service. 

Robert Irvin SMITH, Leading Fireman, National Fire Service. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): — (Second Supplement to the L/G 36111, 30 th July 1943, pp, 3424.) 

Eric Donald ANKIN, Fireman, Works Fire Brigade, Cambridge. 

Stanley John DRIVER, Fireman, Works Fire Brigade, Cambridge. 

A fire broke out in a hangar containing 26 aircraft. The Works Fire Services fought the fire and succeeded in confining the 

damage to one machine. It was known at the time that the tanks of the burning aircraft contained petrol and it was realised that if 

these exploded the hangar and all the other aircraft would almost certainly be destroyed. 

Ankin and Driver, regardless of their lives, climbed on to the top of the blazing aircraft and with extinguishers kept the flames 

away from the petrol tanks. Simultaneously other personnel fought the flames with foam and water from major appliances and the 

fire was eventually put out. Both Ankin and Driver were aware of the great danger they were facing while keeping the flames 

away from the tanks and it was mainly due to their courage and determination that a major disaster was averted. 

St. James's Palace, S.W.I. 

August, 1943. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the following awards of the British Empire Medal, and for the 


Commendation for their brave conduct in Civil Defence. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Second Supplement to the L/G 36147, 27 th August 1943, pp, 3821.) 

Thomas William DODD, Company Officer, No. 11 (Essex) Area, National Fire Service. 

Bombs damaged houses and caused a number of fires. Having organised his appliances, Company Officer Dodd went to a fire 

where a woman was trapped beneath debris. Without hesitation he crawled into a very limited space and remained with the victim 

until she was released two hours later. During this time, there was continual danger of a further collapse of debris. Dodd then 

went to another incident and again rendered invaluable assistance. He crawled through a hazardous section of house debris to a 

woman and child who were trapped, and remained there for some hours with the possibility of the floor boards, which were 

supporting the debris above, collapsing at any moment. 

Company Officer Dodd showed conspicuous devotion to duty and gallantry whilst .engaged in fire-fighting and rescue work. 

8th October, 1943. 


specially shown below as having received an expression of Commendation for their brave conduct in Civil Defence: — 

(Second Supplement to the L/G 36199, 8 th October 1943, pp, 43991.) 


William HUNT, Fireman, Merchant Navy. (‗FIREMAN‘ This was the term used in the Mechant Navy at the time to describe the 

men who tended the ships boilers by ―stoking them wth coal‖. The larger and faster the ship, the greater the number of the 

‗firemen‘ required. 

The equivalent term in the Royal Navy was ‗stoker‘. Many stokers received bravery awards and William Hunt is included only to 

clarify this point). 

Michael McKenna (deceased), Fireman, Merchant Navy. 

William John Parker (deceased), Fireman, Merchant Navy. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Third Supplement to the L/G. 35792, 20 th November 1942, pp.5054.) 


Margaret Dorothy CASHMORE, Firewoman, National Fire Service (No. 17 Area), Weston-super-Mare. 



The KING has been pleased to award the King's Police and Fire Services Medal to the undermentioned Officers: — 

(Supplement to the L/G 36309, 1 st January 1944, pp. 47.) 


Fire Services: England and Wales. 

James Thomas RALPH. Company Officer (part time) Metropolitan Vickers Electrical Co. Ltd. Works Fire Brigade. 


79


George BENNISON, Director of Studies, National Fire Service College, Saltdean. 

Joseph DOUGHERTY, Company Officer, No. 12 (Cambridge) Fire Force. 

Charles John LOVERIDGE Divisional Officer, No. 14 (Portsmouth) Fire Force. 

Charles PETERS, Divisional Officer, No. 24 (Birmingham) Fire Force. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the following promotions in, and appointments to the Most Excellent 

Order of the British Empire: 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:—(Fourth Supplement to the L/G 36312, 4 th. 

January 1944, pp. 64/67.) 

Harold James BEAL, Esq., Column Officer, No. 35 (London) Fire Area, National Fire Service. 

Gordon CAMERON, Esq., Divisional Officer, Western No. 1 (Glasgow) Area, National Fire Service 

Miss Ethel Marion LEVERSON, Area Officer, No. 27 (Manchester) Fire Area, National Fire Service. 

John Xavier PRENDERGAST, Esq., Divisional Officer, No. 6 (Hull) Fire Area, National Fire Service 

The KING has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the 

undermentioned:—(Fourth Supplement to the L/G 36312, 4 th January 1944, pp. 72/3.) 

Alfred Albert BOTTLE, Leading Fireman, No. 30 (East Kent) Area, National Fire Service. 

William ELRICK, Section Leader, North Eastern Area, Fraserburgh, National Fire Service. 

Horace Nelson JENKINS, Company Officer, No. 5 Regional Headquarters, National Fire Service. 

William Charles KNIFTON, Leading Fireman, No. 36 Area, National Fire Service 

Ernest George REYNOLDS, Company Officer, No. 39 (Swindon) Area, National Fire Service 

Miss Ethel STATTERS, Assistant Group Officer, No. 6 (Hull) Fire Force, National Fire Service 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G 36452, 4 th April 1944, pp. 1548.) 

Thomas Herbert DANIELS, Company Officer, No. 40 (Birmingham) Area, National Fire Service. 

A fire occurred in a dwelling house and two children were trapped in a room on the first floor. Company Officer Daniels ascended 

a ladder but was unable to get into the room on account of the intense heat and smoke. However, despite the fact that the 

downstairs diving room was by this time well ablaze and flames were issuing towards the stairs, Daniels managed to get up the 

staircase and found a child. He carried her to the window and handed her to a fireman but he then collapsed and had to be helped 

down the ladder and taken to hospital where he was detained suffering from severe burns. 

Company Officer Daniels showed courage and devotion to duty. 


Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct: — (Supplement to the L/G 36452, 4 th April 1944, pp, 1548/9.) 

When rescuing children from a burning house: — 

Archibald FRASER, Column Officer, No. 40 (Birmingham) Area, National Fire Service. 

When helping to rescue a man trapped in a burning building: — 

Vincent BROWN, Fireman, Work's Fire Brigade, Manchester. 

Frederick RIGBY, Fireman, Work's Fire Brigade, Manchester. 

John SANDERSON, Leading Fireman, Work's Fire Brigade, Manchester. 


The KING has been pleased to award the King's Police and Fire Services Medal to the undermentioned Officers: (Supplement 

to the L/G/ 36544, 8 th June 1944, pp 2650.) 



Herbert BLACKLEDGE, Fire Force Commander, No. 28 (Bolton) Fire Force. 

Frank JOWETT, Divisional Officer, No. 6 (Hull) Fire Force. 

Henry James William KING, Fire Force Commander, River Thames Formation. 

William NICHOLSON, Divisional Officer, No. 26 (Liverpool) Fire Force. 

Henry Ernest SKILLERN, Fire Staff Officer, Grade I, Headquarters, National Fire Service. 


Colin Sharp DAVIDSON, O.B.E., Column Officer, Eastern Fire Area. 

St. James's Palace, S.W.1. 8th June, 1944. 

The KING has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration of His Majesty's Birthday to give orders for the 

following promotions in, and appointments to, the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: —(Fourth Supplement to the 

L/G, 36547, 8 th June 1944, pp. 2667). 

To be Additional Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: — 

Sidney Henry CHARTERS, Esq., Fire Force Commander, No. 14 (Portsmouth) Area, National Fire Service. 

Alexander Bookless CRAIG, Esq., Principal Fire Staff Officer to the Scottish Home Department. 

Charles Philip McDUELL, Esq., M.B.E. Fire Force Commander, No. 36 (London) Area, National Fire Service. 

80

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: — (Fourth Supplement to the L/G, 36547, 8 th 

June 1944, pp. 2671). 

Robert William DOBBING, Esq., B.E.M., Divisional Officer, No. 5 (London) Region, National Fire Service. 

Thomas Alexander McALLISTER, Esq., Column Officer, Northern Ireland, National Fire Service. 

Lena, Mrs. RADFORD, Regional Woman Fire Officer, No. 3 (Nottingham) Region, National Fire Service. 

Thomas Gillman GORDON-SMITH, Esq., Divisional Officer, No. 37 (London) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 


the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned (Supplement to the L/G 36547, 10 th June 1944, pp. 2676.) 

John Arthur Douglas BOOTIMAN, Senior Company Officer (Area Welfare Officer) No. 17 (Bristol) Area, National Fire Service. 

William Henry CROOK, Section Leader, No. 29 (Preston) Area, National Fire Service. 

Lilias, Mrs. GUTHRIE, Firewoman, No. 34 (London) Area, National Fire Service. 

Harry Ullerthorne HOTHAM, Company Officer, No. 6 (Hull) Area, National Fire Service. 

Thomas Gillman GORDON SMITH, Esq., Divisional Officer, No. 37 (London) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Wilfred Henry OAKLEY, Leading Fireman, No. 36 (London) Area, National Fire Service 

George Arthur ROBERTS, Leading Fireman, No. 37 (London) Area, National Fire Service. 

14 th June, 1945. 

The KING has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the celebration of His Majesty's Birthday, to give orders for the 

following promotions in, and appointments to, the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: — (Fourth Supplement to the 

L/G. 37122, 15 th June 1944., pp. 3046.) 

Arthur Alfred DAVIES, Esq., Chief Regional Fire Officer, No. 12 (South Eastern) Region, National Fire Service. 

George DRURY, Esq., M.B.E., Fire Force Commander, No. 19 (Plymouth Fire Force,National Fire Service. 

Thomas Herbert PATRICK, Esq., Chief Regional Fire Officer, No. 3 (N. Midland) Region, National Fire Service. 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Fourth Supplement to the L/G. 37122, 15 th 

June 1944., pp. 3049.) 

John Eustace BLYTH, Esq., lately Divisional Officer, Fire Service, Northern Ireland. 

Lawrence CORBRICK, Esq., Assistant Fire Force Commander No.. 2 (Middlesbrough) Area, National Fire Service. 

Violet Millicerut, Mrs. MOORE, Regional Woman Fire Officer, No. 6 (Southern) Regional Headquarters, National Fire Service 

Garnet Scotton OSCROFT, Esq., F.I.M.T., M.Inst.B.E., Column Officer, No. 8 (Nottingham) Area, National Fire Service. 

Miss Robina Mary SCOTT, lately Area Officer, No. 13 (Norwich) Area, National Fire Service. 

14 th June, 1945. 


the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the under-mentioned:— (Fourth Supplement to the L/G. 37122, 15 th June 1944., pp. 

3055.) 

Royston CHUDLEIGH, Section Leader, No. 32 (Worthing) Area, National Fire Service. 

John Dennis LEVICK, Section Leader, No. 10 (North Western) Regional Headquarters, National Fire Service. 

Alexander MACRAE, Company Officer, National Fire Service, Dingwall, Ross and Cromarty. 

Jack READ, Section Leader, No. 5 (London) Regional Headquarters, National FireService. 

George ROBERTSON, Resident Fireman, Tyne Improvement Commission. 

Eric Arthur STEVENSON, Company Officer, No. 13 (Norwich) Area, National Fire Service. 

Derek TRICE, Section Leader, No. 32 (Worthing) Area, National Fire Service. 

Horace WILLIAMS, Senior Company Officer, No. 22 (North Wales) Area, National Fire Service 


I2th September, 1944. 


British Empire, and for the following awards of the George Medal and of the British Empire Medal, for brave conduct. 

To be an Additional Officer of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire:— (Second Supplement to 

the L/G. 36696, 12 th September 1944., pp. 4213.) 

William Henry James BENTON, Chief Regional Fire Officer, Eastern Region, National Fire Service. 

To be an Additional Member of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire:— 

Reginald Clarence WELCH, Assistant Fire Force Commander, No. 11 (Southend) Area, National Fire Service. 


Leonard Cyril CRICKMORE, Section Leader, No. 11 (Southend) Area, National Fire Service. 

A fire broke out at a returned ammunition dump and following a major explosion the fire-fighting personnel were withdrawn until 

a reconnaissance could be made. Mr. Benton undertook to do this with the Assistant Fire Force Commander and it proved very 

valuable. During the inspection which extended well into the danger area, continuous minor explosions occurred, and there was a 

possibility that further major explosions might occur at any time. Mr. Benton not only showed courage and initiative of a high 

order, but set an admirable example to all personnel by his disregard of danger. In conditions of considerable complexity and 

danger Mr. Welch showed ourage and devotion to duty of a high order while carrying out his duty as Officer in Charge of the Fire. 

81

Section Leader Crickmore was in charge of the first N.F.S. attendance at the fire. He showed great energy and initiative in 

tackling the initial problems. Shortly after his arrival the first major explosion put out of action the fire-fighting appliances and 

made necessary the temporary withdrawal of personnel. Although Crickmore was badly shaken, he continued to control the 

situation until the arrival of a senior Officer. He afterwards collapsed and was taken to hospital but as soon as he was released he 

reported back for duty at the fire. Crickmore showed courage, endurance and devotion to duty. 


Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct. (Supplement to the L/G. 36717, 26 th September 1944., pp. 4439.) 

When aircraft crashed and caught fire:— 

Walter Bannister, Panel Beater, Fulham. Roy Crow, Farm Worker, Dunmow, Essex. 

Bertram Gordon, Tobacconist, Fulham. John Walter Miller, Tractor Driver, Boreham, Essex. 

George Morton, Farm Worker,, Dunmow, Essex. 

John RICHARDSON, Leading Fireman, No. 32 (Sussex) Area, National Fire Service. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (B.E.M.) (Civil Division): — (Supplement to the L/G. 36737, 10 th October 1944, pp. 4633.) 

James CULBERT, Company Officer, National Fire Service, Northern Ireland. 

Richard NOLAN, Leading Fireman, National Fire Service, Northern Ireland. 

When an aircraft crashed on a hillside Company Officer Culbert was one of the first to reach the burning plane. In an attempt to 

rescue the crew, he tried to enter from the rear turret. Three petrol tanks were alight and burning strongly and owing to the great 

heat he was unable to reach the victims. 

Leading Fireman Nolan, had already helped to get a line of hose up the hillside over the most difficult type of ground but despite 

the tremendous exertions thus made, when he arrived at the burning plane he climbed on to the outside port-engine in order to 

make the most effective use of his jet. At this time there was a great risk of the fourth petrol tank, which was situated almost 

alongside him, either exploding or becoming ignited. He nevertheless held his position and not only succeeded in saving the 

fourth tank but also prevented the magnesium flares from igniting and so enabled Culbert to clamber up to the top of the plane and 

force his way into the fuselage. 

He found the crew, all dead. Nolan remained despite orders to remove himself to a safe position and made it .possible for Culbert 

and others to complete their rescue work. On several occasions Nolan was nearly overcome toy smoke and fumes and 

immediately he relinquished his position the magnesium flares became ignited. Culbert and Nolan showed courage and great 

devotion to duty. 


Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct in Civil Defence:— (Supplement to the L/G. 36737, 10 th October 

1944., pp. 4634.) 

Ronald Henry HARPER, Leading Fireman, No. 36 (London) Area, National Fire Service. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the following awards of the British Empire Medal, and for the 


Commendation for their brave conduct. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Third Supplement to the L/G. 36760, 24 th October 1944, pp. 4862.) 

Reginald MIDGLEY, Leading Fireman, No. 2 (Stockton-on-Tees) Area, National Fire Service. 

A ship was in the process of unloading a large cargo of explosives. Special precautions had been taken and a National Fire 

Service crew in charge of Leading Fireman Midgley was standing by. 

Fire broke out amidships and Midgley descended the hold and a branch and hose were lowered to him. He first attacked a small 

outbreak of fire in the straw matting between decks and then continued to the bottom where the fire originated. He found that a 

steel case had dropped heavily upon another and the detonator cap of a 25 pound cartridge had been struck. The charge fused, 

ignited others and in consequence badly distorted the, case, and flames belched forth which scorched other cases. Midgley turned 

his branch on the cases to cool them down and, with no thought of his own safety, pulled out the burning case. With help he put it 

on the loading tray and it was then hauled up by crane and slung ashore. Other cases which had been badly scorched were also 

removed to a safe place. Midgley showed exceptional courage, tenacity and leadership. 


Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct:— (Third Supplement to the L/G. 36760, 24 th October 1944, pp. 

4863.) 

When fire-fighting in an ammunition ship in dock:— 

Frederick Trewick HOWE, Fireman, No. 2 (Stockton-on-Tees) Area, National Fire Service. 


21st November, 1944. 


specially shown below as having received an expression of Commendation for their brave conduct: — 

When aircraft crashed and caught fire: —(Third Supplement to the L/G. 36803, 21 st November 1944, pp. 5336.) 

Charles William Grass, Gamekeeper, Friends Green, Weston, Hertfordshire. 

William Patrick Mitchell, B.E.M., Maintenance Foreman, Portsmouth. 

George Edward SANDS, Company Officer, Works Fire Brigade, Portsmouth. 

82

Arthur Sydney William THOMAS, Section Leader, Works Fire Brigade,. Portsmouth. 

Cyril Winter, Smallholder, Newton, Wisbech. 

Frank Winter, Special Constable, Isle of Ely (Cambridgeshire) Special Constabulary. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): — (Third Supplement to the L/G. 36824, 5 th December 1944, pp. 5567.) 

Stanley Vincent CLARK, Leading Fireman, No. 12 (Stevenage) Area, National Fire Service. 

Houses were demolished by a flying bomb and fires broke out. A boy was heard screaming and Clark, without thought for his 

own safety, went into blazing and unsafe wreckage, released the trapped child and brought him to safety. Clark by his courageous 

action undoubtedly saved the life of the boy. 



1st January, 1945. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to signify His Majesty's intention of conferring the Honour of Knighthood upon the 

following: — (Supplement to the L/G 36866. 1 st January 1945, pp. 2.) 

Commander Aylmer Newton George FIREBRACE, C.B.E., R.N. (Retired), Chief of the Fire Staff and Inspector-in-Chief of the 

Fire Services, Home Office. 


The KING has been pleased to award the King's Police and Fire Services Medal to the undermentioned Officers:—(Supplement 

to the L/G 36866. 1 st January 1945, pp. 107.) 



Frederick George William Edward HARRIS, Column Officer, No. 1 (Newcastle upon Tyne) Fire Force. 



(George Allen BAIRIBRIDGE, Divisional Officer (part-time), No. 20 (Cardiff) Fire Force. 

William Herbert BARRETT, Fire Force Commander, No. 13 (Norwich) Fire Force. 

Edgar Leonard DAWE, Divisional Officer, No. 16 (Southampton) Fire Force. 

Thomas Arthur VARLEY, O.B.E., Chief Regional Fire Officer, No. 1 (Newcastle upon Tyne) Region. 

George Albert Victor WEST, Divisional Officer, No. 9 (Birmingham) Regional Headquarters 

SPECIAL LIST FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE IN CONNECTION WITH THE FLYING BOMB ATTACKS. 

Fire Services. 

Clifford Parker KITCHIN, Divisional Officer, No. 30 (East Kent) Fire Force. 

Charles William Blount STONHAM, M.C., Divisional Officer, No. 11 (Southend-on-Sea) Fire Force. 

The citation for his Military Cross reads; 

T./Lt. Charles William Stonham, Rif. Brig. 

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He was brigade intelligence officer, and during nine days' retirement' he was 

continually in the front line collecting information of the situation. He displayed conspicuous courage, and, although blown up by 

a shell, continued at his work until able to walk no more. (L/G. 30813, 26 th July 1918, pp. 8848.) 

St. James's Palace, S.W.1. 



Order of the British Empire: —(Fourth Supplement to the L/G. 36869, 3 rd January 1945, pp. 123.) 

To be Additional Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: 

Joyce Sybil, Mrs. HICKS, Regional Woman Fire Officer, No. 4 (Cambridge) Region, National Fire Service. 

Gordon Ernest HUFF, Esq., M.M., Commanding Officer, Corps of Canadian Fire Fighters. 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:—(Fourth Supplement to the L/G. 36869, 3 rd 

January 1945, pp. 125.) 

Miss Kathleen BATES, Regional Woman Fire Officer, No. 2 (Leeds) Region, National Fire Service. 

John Kempster BUTLER, Esq., Assistant Fire Force Commander, No. 31 (Brighton) Area, National Fire Service. 

Victor Nelson BOTTEN, Esq., Deputy Fire Force Commander No. 38 (London) Area, National Fire Service. 

Thomas Bruce ROBERTS, Esq., Column Officer (Staff) No. 9 (Leicester) Area, National Fire Service. 

St. James's Palace, S.W 1. 

3 rd January, 1945. 


undermentioned:— (Fourth Supplement to the L/G. 36869, 3 rd January 1945, pp. 131). 

Miss Eileen Mary COYNE, Firewoman Cook. No. 36 (London) Area, National Fire Service. 

Charles John DIWELL Leading Fireman, Corps of Canadian Firefighters. 

83

Maynard William DOLMAN, Senior Company Officer, Corps of Canadian Firefighters. (The actions of this ‗band of brothers‘ is 

well worth study. They were an amazing group. See also HUFF, LAVIGNE and de WAAL.) 

Lionel Churchill MILES, Company Officer, No. 39 (Gloucester) Area, National Fire Service. 

Samuel ROE, Company Officer, No. 7 (Derby) Area, National Fire Service. 

John Adamson YOUNG, Senior Company Officer, No. 1 (Newcastle) Area, National Fire Service 

Awarded the British Empire Medal, (Civil Division):—(Third Supplement to the L/G 36946, 20 th February 1945, pp. 994.) 

Thomas George COOPER, Section Leader, National Fire Service, Northern Ireland. 

A fire broke out in a shop and Section Leader Cooper was told that a woman was in the house above the premises. Despite the 

dense smoke and an escape of coal gas, he tried to ascend the staircase which was alight and in the attempt both his hands were 

badly burned. He was unsuccessful and called for a ladder. Putting on his breathing apparatus, he climbed to a window which he 

smashed, and then entered the room. Feeling his way past many obstructions, he heard moans and made his way through the 

smoke towards the sound. On the landing at the top of the burning staircase he found a stoutly built woman who was unconscious. 

He was unable to lift her but he dragged her back through the doorway. As he approached the window his breathing apparatus 

became dislocated by some of the obstructions and the mouth-piece was torn away. Almost overcome with smoke and gas fumes 

he dragged the unconscious woman to the window-sill. He was by now exhausted and stepped out on to the ladder to get help. 

The woman was brought to safety by other members of the unit. Cooper showed courage and devotion to duty in difficult 

circumstances, without regard for his own safety. 


Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct:— (Third Supplement to the L/G 36946, 20 th February 1945, pp. 

994.) 

John Wesley BORTHWICK, Leading Fireman, No. 11 (Southend) Area, National Fire Service. 

When a fire occurred in an ammunition store. 



(Supplement to the L/G 37119, 14 th June 1945, pp. 3031.) 



Thomas Bertram GOODMAN, Assistant and Deputy Fire Force Commander, No. 30 (East Kent) Fire Force. 

The D.F.F.C had an action backed career. He joined the L.F.B. in 1933 after an apprenticeship in the Merchant Navy. Early in 

the war he was flown to Malta in a Sunderland flying boat to advise the civilian authorities on civil defence. Not a small 

undertaking! Job done, he left the island by submarine and was flown home from Gibraltar. 

He played a prominent part in planning Ops ―Harlequin‖ and ―Colour Scheme‖. As D.F.F.C. No. 30 (East Kent) Fire Force he 

attended many ship fires in the English Channel including one on board a petrol carrier, the ―Empire Lough‖ and maybe it was 

this incident that promted the award. In 1955 he was awarded the M.B.E. 

The KING has been pleased to award the King's Police and Fire Services Medal to the undermentioned Officers: 

(Supplement to the L/G. 37119, 14 th June 1945, pp. 3031. 

FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE. Fire Services: England and Wales. 

Percy George GARON, M.C., G.M., formerly Fire Force Commander, No. 11 (Southend) Fire Force. 

His award of the Military Cross was .promulgated in the L/G. 30450, 28 th December 1917, pp 26, but, sadly, no citation is given. 

P.G. Garon‘s entry is but one of about 2,200 M.C. winners listed in this edition of the L/G alone. He served with the Army 

Service Corps. ‗The undermentioned temp. 2nd Lts. to be temp. Lts., and to retain their actg. Rank where specified: —:‖ P.G. 

Garon, M.C. Army Service Corps‖, (L/G 30877, 30 August, pp. 10,234—28th June 1918). 

Awarded a George Medal for his actions in December 1940 at an oil depot. 

Edward Benjamin EASTLAND, Divisional Officer, No. 12 (Cambridge) Fire Force. 

John Henry FARMER, Assistant Fire Force Commander, No. 17 (Bristol) Fire Force. 

John WILKINS, Divisional Officer, No. 29 (Preston) Fire Force. 

Harry HICKS, B.E.M., Divisional Officer, No. 14 (Portsmouth).Fire Force. 


Thomas CARSON, Divisional Officer, No. 1 (Western) Area, Scotland. 

The KING has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the celebration of His Majesty's Birthday, to give orders for the 

fallowing promotions in, and appointments to, the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: — 

To be Additional Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: —(Fourth Supplement to the L/G. 37122, 15 th 

June 1945, pp. 3046.) 

Arthur Alfred DAVIES, Esq., Chief Regional Fire Officer, No. 12 (South Eastern) Region, National Fire Service. 

George DRURY, Esq., M.B.E., Fire Force Commander, No. 19 Plymouth Fire Force,. National Fire Service. 

Thomas Herbert PATRICK, Esq., Chief Regional Fire Officer, No. 3 (N. Midland) Region, National Fire Service. 


To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Fourth Supplement to the L/G. 37122, 15 th 

June 1945, pp. 3049 / 3050.) 

84

John Eustace BLYTH, Esq., lately Divisional Officer, Fire Service, Northern Ireland. 


William Elliot CRAIG, Esq., Regional Fire Prevention Officer, Scotland. 

Violet Millicent, Mrs. MOORE, Regional Woman Fire Officer, No. 6 (Southern) Regional Headquarters, National Fire Service. 

Garnet Scotton OSCROFT, Esq., F.I.M.T., M.Inst.B.E., Column Officer, No. 8 (Nottingham) Area, National Fire Service. 

Miss Robina Mary SCOTT, lately Area Officer, No. 13 (Norwich) Area, National Fire Service. 

St James's Palace, S.W.1. 

14 th June, 1945. 


the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the under-mentioned:— (Fourth Supplement to the L/G. 37122, 15 th June 1945, pp. 

3056 / 3062.) 

Royston CHUDLEIGH, Section Leader, No. 32 (Worthing) Area, National Fire Service. 

John Dennis LEVICK, Section Leader, No. 10 (North Western) Regional Headquarters, National Fire Service. 

Jack READ, Section Leader, No. 5 (London) Regional Headquarters, National Fire Service. 

Eric Arthur STEVENSON, Company Officer, No. 13 (Norwich) Area, National Fire Service. 

Derek TRICE, Section Leader, No. 32 (Worthing) Area, National Fire Service. 

Horace WILLIAMS, Senior Company Officer, No. 22 (North Wales) Area, National Fire Service. 

St. James's Palace, S.W.I, 4th September, 1945. 

The KING has been .graciously pleased to give orders for the undermentioned appointments to the Most Excellent Order of the 

British Empire, for the following awards of the British Empire Medal, and for the publication in the London Gazette of the 

names of the persons specially shown below as having received an expression of Commendation for their brave conduct. 

To be an Additional Officer of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order Off the British Empire:— (Third Supplement to 

the L/G. 37250, 15 th June 1945, pp. 4434.) 

William Howard BARKER, Fire Force Commander, No. 10 (Lincoln) Area, National Fire Service. 

When a fire broke out at a Royal Air Force bomb dump, the National Fire Service was called out. Fire Force Commander Barker, 

on arrival at the fireground, immediately assumed control of the operations. Shortly after his arrival, a second dump blew up and 

explosions continued for some 24 hours. He accordingly concentrated his main forces in the vicinity of the large dump of high 

explosive bombs, his actions being marked with most satisfactory results. 

He handled an extremely difficult and dangerous situation with outstanding initiative and courage. Fire Force Commander Barker 

showed complete disregard of his own personal safety, but was at all times deeply concerned that the men under his command 

should not suffer injury. That no Service injuries were sustained was mostly due to his control of the situation. 


Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct: —(Third Supplement to the L/G. 37250, 4 th September 1945, pp. 

4435.) 

When a fire broke out at a Royal Air Force bomb store: — 

Henry Austin GIBSON, Divisional Officer, No. 10 (Lincoln) Area, National Fire Service. 

George JACKSON, Fireman, No. 10 (Lincoln) Area, National Fire Service. 

Richard Dugdale MELLORS, Leading Fireman, No. 10 {Lincoln) Area, National Fire Service. 

Ralph RINGROSE, Leading Fireman, No. 10 (Lincoln) Area, National Fire Service. 

Douglas SARGENT, B.E.M., Divisional Officer, No. 10 (Lincoln) Area, National Fire Service. 

Robert Edwin WHITBY, Fireman, No. 10 (Lincoln) Area, National Fire Service. 


British. Empire, for the following awards of the George Medal and of the British Empire Medal, and for the publication in the 

London Gazette of the names of the persons specially shown below as having received an expression of Commendation for 

their brave conduct. 

To be an Additional Officer of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire:—(Third Supplement to the 

L/G 37270, 18 th September 1945, pp. 4633). 

Laurence George GALE, Superintendent, Royal Ordnance Factory, Kirkby. 

Awarded the George Medal:— 

Richard Arthur Samuel BYWATER, G.C., Factory Development Officer, Royal Ordnance Factory, Kirkby. 

William Ernest DENNY, Assistant Superintendent, Royal Ordnance Factory, Kirkby. 

Roy Thomas William EDWARDS, Agent. For Thos. Bates & Son, Ltd., Demolition Contractors. 

William Louis FITZMAURICE, M.B.E., Chief Technical Assistant, Royal Ordnance Factory, Kirkby. 

Ronald Donald FORBES, Leading Fireman, Works Fire Brigade, Royal Ordnance Factory, Kirkby. 

James Shanks MURDOCH, B.E.M., Shop Manager,. Royal Ordnance Factory, Kirkby. 

William James PANTON, B.E.M., Foreman, Royal Ordnance Factory, Kirkby. 

Mark Victor ROWLING, B.E.M., Shop Manager, Royal Ordnance Factory, Kirkby. 

William TOPPING, Fireman, Works Fire Brigade, Royal Ordnance Factory, Kirkby. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Third Supplement to the L/G 37270, 18 th September 1945, pp. 4633.) 

Albert Edward BYRON, Senior Leading Fireman, Works Fire Brigade, Royal Ordnance Factory, Kirkby. 

85

John Alfred CHRISTIAN, Fireman, Works Fire Brigade, Royal Ordnance Factory, Kirkby. 

Henry HANKIN, Fireman, Works Fire Brigade, Royal Ordnance Factory, Kirkby. 

An explosion occurred at the Royal Ordnance Factory, Kirkby, during the filling of highly dangerous ammunition. The night was 

exceptionally dark, there was no moon, and it was raining heavily. The major explosion was followed by others. 

Almost all lights were extinguished and soon the only illumination in and around the shattered bomb strewn building was .given 

by the fires which broke out. The morale of the Factory staff was superb. All the operatives were aware of the dangerous nature 

of the work and immediately the noise of the explosion was heard, rescuers ran from all the near-by buildings. Girl operatives, 

who had made their escape from the building, returned to bring out their injured friends. The Factory Fire Brigade were on the 

spot within a matter of minutes and ran their hose into the building. Whilst the fires blazed and bombs continued to explode, the 

injured were brought out and desperate attempts made to release a trapped man. They continued until the Assistant 

Superintendent, who was in charge in the absence on leave of the Superintendent, ordered everyone to leave the building and take 

shelter behind the mounds. 

The responsibility laid upon Mr. Denny was heavy, but his decision was justified, as in a few .minutes another explosion brought 

down more wreckage. It was nearly daybreak when a pile of bombs in their wooden crates, crushed beneath the fallen roof, was 

seen to be on fire and out of reach of the firemen's hose. The fire was gaining and, had it taken hold, the consequences would have 

been disastrous over a wide area of the Factory. 

Mr. Denny entered the building alone. He sought some way of getting at the flames and having found this, came out and 

explained the position to Forbes and Topping. Without hesitation the two men volunteered to enter the building and tackle the fire 

from within at the proposed angle and range. The three men cautiously groped their way into the wrecked building. Standing 

among the damaged ammunition, which the rush of water was sufficient to disturb, with consequent risk of detonation, they 

brought the fire under control and completely extinguished it. Byron, Christian and Hankin took their hose into another part of the 

wrecked building. They showed devotion to duty and voluntarily exposed themselves to the danger of death or serious injury. 

Mr. Gale, who was on leave when the explosion occurred, returned immediately. A preliminary survey was made and a scheme, 

evolved by the Superintendent. It was carried successfully into effect mainly through his initiative and leadership. He organised 

and thoroughly tested the safety precautions, was present a considerable part of every day when work was in progress and no fresh 

step was taken until he had personally assured himself that the methods were as safe as his knowledge and ingenuity could make 

them. By his coolness, ability, courage and inspiring leadership, Mr. Gale completed a unique and terrifying salvage task without 

a single casualty. 

Bywater, Edwards, Fitzmaurice, Murdoch, Panton and Rowling formed the team of volunteers who cleared the wrecked building. 

In a task presenting vast problems they displayed courage and co-operation of the highest order. The ammunition which had 

caused the accident was anti-personnel and anti-disturbance, and the fuzed time-bombs, scattered over and under the debris, made 

clearance nearly impossible by detonating without warning and in an absolutely unpredictable manner. A constant risk was the 

movement of wreckage and any one member of the team could, by ignorance, negligence or a moment's carelessness endanger the 

lives of the others. 

The high standard of the team work at Kirkby is shown by the fact that during the clearance operations there was no casualty. All 

members of the team, under the leadership of Mr. Gale and Mr. Denny, showed high courage and devotion to duty in volunteering 

for and carrying through over a period of three months, so arduous, unpleasant and dangerous a task. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Third Supplement to the L/G 37270, 18 th September 1945, pp. 4635.) 

Peter PRITCHARD, Company Officer, National Fire Service (Assistant Fire Officer, Ministry of War Transport, Mediterranean 

Area). A ship which was discharging bombs at Bari blew up with a great explosion. Among the damaged ships was the Italian 

s.s. Lucia C which was carrying petrol. Fire at once broke out in this ship and volunteer parties were formed to try to save her and 

her company. Mr. Pritchard boarded the vessel and took charge of operations. 

Under his direction the fire was kept under control until the vessel could be beached and allowed to burn out. 

Mr. Pritchard showed courage and devotion to duty without regard for his own safety. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division). (Fourth Supplement to the London Gazette 37383, 11 th December 1945, pp. 

6021.) 

Joseph REMPHRY, Chief Officer, Fire Brigade, Jersey. 


Whitehall, January1st. 1946. 


(Supplement to the L/G. 37407, 1 st January 1946, pp. 131.) 


Fire Services: England and Wales 

Joseph William RICHARDSON, Deputy Fire Force Commander, No. 10 (Lincoln) Fire Force. 

Edwin Richard Thomas STANFORD, Fire Force Commander, No. 12 (Cambridge) Fire Force. 

Sidney William BARNES, G.M., Deputy Fire Force Commander, No. 36 (London) Fire Force. (G.M. awarded in 1942, see p.74.) 

George Herbert ROBINSON, Fire Force Commander, No. 30 (East Kent) Fire Force. 

Arthur Reginald James LEEK, Deputy Fire Force Commander, No. 39 (Swindon) Fire Force.) 


Andrew McMASTER, Divisional Officer, Western (No. 1) Area. 

86

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders -for the following promotions in, and appointments to, the Most 

Excellent Order of the British Empire:—(Sixth Supplement to the L/G. 37412, 9 th January 1946, pp. 276.) 

To be Additional Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: —(O.B.E.) 

Claud BICKNELL, Esq., lately Fire Staff Officer, Grade I, National Fire Service Headquarters. 

Robert BOWMAN, Esq., M.B.E., Fire Force Commander, Western (No. 2) Area, Scotland. 

Henry William COLEMAN, Esq., Fire Force Commander, No. 24 (Birmingham) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

James Henry PILLING, Esq., Fire Force Commander, No. 6 (Hull) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

May Isabella, Mrs. ROSE, Regional Woman Fire Officer, National Fire Service Headquarters 

Sir Eric STUDD, Bt, Assistant Fire Force Commander, No. 12 (South-Eastern) Regional Fire Headquarters, National Fire Service 

Donald Marshall TAYLOR, Esq., Fire Force Commander, No. 15 (Reading) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:—(M.B.E.) (Sixth Supplement to the L/G. 

37412, 9 th January 1946, pp. 287.) 

Walter ARMSTRONG, Esq., A.M.Inst.C.E., A.M.I.Mech.E., Divisional Officer, No. 4 (Leeds) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Miss Clare Emily BARRY, Senior Woman Officer, No. 4 (Eastern) Regional Fire Headquarters, National Fire Service. 

Wilfrid COLE, Esq., Divisional Officer, No. 6 (Southern) Regional Fire Headquarters. 

John Thomas DAY, Esq., lately Group Officer, Overseas Column, National Fire Service. 

Miss Margaret Katharine DAVIS, Area Olficer, No. 36 (London) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Lewis Hugh John DOREY, Esq., Divisional Officer (Chief Clerk), No. 36 (London) Fire Force Headquarters, National Fire 

Service. 

Reginald William James DOWNTON, Esq., Senior Staff Officer, No: 9 (Midland) Regional Fire Headquarters, National Fire 


George Stirling DRAFFEN, Esq., Divisional Officer, Headquarters Staff, National Fire Service, Scotland. 

Muir Pringle FINLAY, Esq., W.S., lately Column Officer, South Eastern Area of Scotland, National Fire Service. 

Miss Alice Marie Sophia FOSTER, lately Regional Woman Fire Officer, No. 8 (Wales) Fire Region, National Fire Service 

James Young Laurie GILCHRIST, Esq., Deputy Fire Force Commander, No 4 Eastern (Scotland) Area, National Fire Service. 

Bridget Elizabeth, Mrs. JOHNSTON, lately Area Officer (Chief Clerk), No. 23 (Worcester) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

John Mylroie KELLY, Esq., B.E.M., Divisional Officer No. 11 (Southend) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Ronald PARKINSON, Esq., Column Officer, No. 1 (Northern) Regional Fire Headquarters, National Fire Service 

Miss Dorothy Isobel REID (Mrs. SCOTT), Principal Administrative Officer, Western (No 2) Area of Scotland, National Fire 


William Henry Joseph THOMPSON, Esq., Assistant Fire Force Commander No. 37 (London) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Edith Ramage Stewart, Mrs. TURNBULL, Area Officer, Western (No. 1) Area of Scotland, National Fire Service. 

Joseph WHITESIDE, Esq., Assistant Eire Force Commander No. 27 (Manchester) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 


undermentioned: 

B.E.M.—(Sixth Supplement to the L/G. 37412, 9 th January 1946, pp. 318.) 

Thomas BAILLIE, Company Officer, South Eastern Area of Scotland, National Fire Service. 

Harold Alfred BENWELL, Senior Company Officer, No. 16 (Southampton) Area, .National Fire Service. 

Leonard George COLBOURNE, Company Officer, No. 31 (Brighton) Area, National Fire Service. (Transferred to Kent after the 

war and rose to the rank of Divisional Officer. A very short man). 

Miss Barbara Carter CLAYDEN, Leading Firewoman, National Fire Service Headquarters. 

Joseph DOWLING, Fire Brigade Man, s.s. "Pasteur" (Cunard White Star Ltd.). 

Dorothy Winifred Joan, Mrs. FITTON, Firewoman, No. 27 (Manchester) Area, National Fire Service 

Duncan GRANT, Section Leader, Western Inverness-shire, National Fire Service. 

George Leonard GRANT, Section Leader, Banchory, National Fire Service. 

Ethel.Mary, Mrs. HEPWORTH, Assistant Area Officer, No. 4 (Leeds) Area, National Fire Service. 

Walter Kennedy LAURIE, Senior Company Officer (No. 26 Liverpool Area), National Fire Service. 

Vera Hinchcliffe Mrs. LYNFIELD, Assistant Group Officer, No. 5 (London) Regional Headquarters, National Fire Service. 

George Edward Thomas Hayward MAUND, Company Officer, No. 23 (Worcester) Area, National Fire Service. 

John Scott MILLER, Company Officer, Eastern Area of Scotland, National Fire Service. 

Thomas Herbert ROBERTSON, Company Officer, Western No. 2 Area of Scotland, National Fire Service. 

Alfred SKINNER, Company Officer, No. 37 (London) Headquarters National Fire Service. 

William Morgan WALLACE, Senior Company Officer, Western No. 1 Area of Scotland, National Fire Service. 

Miss Eizabeth Louisa WOODS, Assistant Group Officer, No. 30 (E. Kent) Area, National Fire Service. 

Frederick DAVIES (deceased) Fireman. No. 34 (London) Area, National Fire Service. 

Awarded the GEORGE CROSS. (Second Supplement to the L/G 37455, 5 th February 1946, pp. 805.) 

Premises which consisted of a shop and house of five rooms caught fire. The N.F.S. were informed that two children were in the 

front room on the second floor. The escape was immediately slipped and pitched to the middle window of this floor. Before it 

was in position Davies ran up the escape. 

At this stage flames were pouring from the windows on the second floor and licking up the front of the building. Upon Davies 

reaching the window he at once tried to enter but bursts of momentarily halted him. Undaunted, however, he climbed into the 

window with his back to the flames and entered the room. He was seen to endeavour to remove his tunic presumably to wrap it 

87

around and protect the children but his hands were too badly burned for him to do so. During this time Davies was moving around 

the blazing room in an endeavour to locate the children, and after a short period he returned with a child in his arms whom he 

handed out of the window. He then turned back into the room to find the other child. 

He was next seen to fling himself out of the window on to the escape, the whole of his clothing being alight. He was helped to the 

ground, the flames on his clothes were extinguished and he was conveyed to hospital suffering from severe burns. Later he died 

from his injuries. 

The gallantry and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Fireman Davies was of the highest order. He knew the danger he was 

facing, but with complete disregard of his own safety he made a most heroic attempt to rescue the two children. In so doing he 

lost his life. 

To be an Additional Member of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. (Second Supplement to 

the L/G 37455, Tuesday, 5th February 1946, pp. 805.) 

M.B.E. 

William Alexander RAMSEY. Divisional Officer, National Fire Service. (Port Fire Officer, Alexandria). 

B.E.M. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): 

Aubrey John MAY. D.S.M. Company Officer, National Fire Service (Deputy Port Fire Officer, Alexandria). 

During the operation of discharging a cargo of octane petrol from a tanker in Alexandria Harbour, Divisional Officer May was put 

in charge of special fire precautions. After three days on board the ship a sudden and unexpected underwater escape of petrol 

occurred. This was very shortly followed by a serious petrol fire in the harbour. 

Immediately he detected the smell of escaping petrol, the Divisional Officer sent a signal requesting the tanker to be taken to sea. 

Shortly afterwards the petrol flashed on the water about 800 yards away from the ship and the fire rapidly began to spread back to 

the vessel along the stream of petrol. Ramsey immediately proceeded in a small open motor boat to the fire and drove his boat 

backwards and forwards through the stream of petrol and strong concentration of high octane gases in close proximity to the fire 

and was successful in breaking up the stream of petrol to the fire and thus stopping the fire spreading back to the vessel. In doing 

this in intense heat he knew that the petrol vapour might have flashed at any moment, which could only have had fatal results for 

himself. He then supervised the initial fighting of the fire from the fire-boat before returning to the tanker to make arrangements 

for that ship to go to sea at once. His very gallant action undoubtedly saved the vessel which still had about 9, 000 tons of spirit 

aboard, and prevented a major disaster. 

Company Officer May was ashore at the time of the outbreak. Immediately he observed the fire he obtained a boat and in about 

ten minutes had taken charge of fire-fighting from the fire-boat. In very close proximity to this blazing fire he worked with 

complete disregard of his personal safety, and after about twenty minutes the fire was under control and finally extinguished. His 

courage and grasp of the situation very materially helped to prevent a serious conflagration. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division). (Second Supplement to the L/G. 37455, Tuesday, 5 th February, 1946. pp. 

806.) 

Frederick John Jerold BARRETT, Fireman, No. 13 (Norwich) Area, National Fire Service. 

George LING, Section Leader, No.13 (Norwich) Area, National Fire Service. 

A fire occurred in an ammunition store. Fireman Barrett, who was in charge of the appliance and crew which was the first to 

arrive, was advised immediately of the situation but, displaying remarkable qualities of courage and leadership, he encouraged his 

crew to go forward and attempt to combat the fire which was spreading in all directions. Whilst Barrett and his crew were getting 

to work, Section Leader Ling arrived with a crew. Barrett continued, under Ling‟s instructions, to attempt to cover one side of the 

fire, whilst the newly arrived formation attacked the fire from the opposite side. With the fire rapidly attaining serious proportions 

and with minor explosions occurring Fireman Barrett pressed home his efforts and courageously led his crew until Senior Officers 

and supporting appliances arrived. 

Section Leader Ling and Fireman Barrett showed courage and exceptional initiative and diligence in fighting the fire in spite of the 

lack of convenient and sufficient water supplies. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division). (Second Supplement to the L/G. 37455, Tuesday 5 th February 1946. pp. 

806.) 

Alfred COOK, Boilermaker (William Gray and Company Ltd.). 

Maurice HAYLOCK. Section Leader , No. 2 (West Hartlepool) Area, National Fire Service. 

During boiler cleaning operations on the S.S. “Empire Prospero” two boiler scalers who had entered the boiler for cleansing 

purposes collapsed. On hearing this, Cook, without thought of personal risk and without knowledge of the cause of collapse 

entered the boiler in a gallant rescue attempt but was overcome. After obtaining a gas mask he made a second attempt and gained 

sufficient hold on one of the casualties to enable him to be pulled out of the boiler. Artificial respiration was applied and he 

recovered. 

Meanwhile a call had been made for the N.F.S. and on arrival Section Leader Haycock, decided that it would be difficult to enter 

the boiler encumbered with breathing apparatus and so entered with a tube from the oxygen of the oxy-acetylene apparatus 

fastened through the lapel of his tunic and directed to pass oxygen across his mouth and nose. To reach the casualty he had to 

enter the boiler head-fast and hang head downwards. He eventually managed to fasten a line round the man and he was hauled 

out. Cook and Haylock showed courage and determination without regard for their own safety. 

88

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division). (Second Supplement to the L/G. 37455, Tuesday 5 th February 1946. pp. 

807.) 

Horace Walter THRIFT, Senior Company Officer. 

Albert SILVESTER, Fireman. No. 32 (Woking) Area, National Fire Service. 

A serious fire broke out in an ammunition dump. Senior Company Officer Thrift was in charge of a hose at one end of the dump 

and with Fireman Silvester advanced the hose to where explosions were in progress. They brought the fire under control in this 

portion of the of the dump and were able to prevent the fire reaching two stacks of Chemical Warfare training gases. They 

continued to use their hose and cooled these stacks until such time as army personnel were able to evacuate the gas to a safer 

location. Thrift and Silvester showed courage and devotion to duty and set an example to their colleagues which resulted in the 

success of a highly dangerous operation. 

Awarded the Kings Commendation for Brave Conduct. (L/G 37455, Tuesday 5 th February 1946, pp. 807.) 

Norman Wilfred THORN, Leading Fireman, No. 34 (London) Area, National Fire Service. 

For attempting to rescue children from a burning house. 


The KING has been pleased to award the Edward Medal to William Waterson in recognition of his gallantry in the following 

circumstances: —(The L/G, 37520, 2 nd April 1946, pp,1633.) 

At 4.30 a.m. on Saturday the 18th August, 1945. two workmen employed in the carbon-black plant at the works of the General 

Electric Company, Ltd., Birmingham, were engaged in collecting newly manufactured damp black from a brick chamber. 

The men were unprotected and had to withstand a high temperature as well as an unpleasant atmosphere due to particles of oily 

lamp black, while carbon monoxide was present from burning soot. After a short time Webb, one of the workmen, collapsed and 

his companion, Albert Edward Stranks, being unable to move him, sought assistance. Breathing apparatus was stored at the works 

fire station some distance away; when Stranks called for help, the fire alarm was properly sounded. 

To await the arrival of breathing apparatus would inevitably have resulted in some delay and as the event conclusively proved, 

there was no time to lose. William Waterson, who was the first to arrive on the scene after the alarm was given, joined Stranks 

and in order to avoid any delay in going to Webb's assistance, without hesitation though fully realising the risk, entered the 

chamber and attempted to pull the man out. Webb was covered in sweat and carbon black and rescue work was difficult as it was 

not possible to get a proper grip on him. 

They were unsuccessful at first and on coming out Stranks collapsed; but Waterson continued to make attempts, entering four 

times in all. On his last entry he was accompanied by John Thomas Hewitt, a member of the works Fire Brigade, who had then 

arrived with a rope but not with the breathing apparatus; together they succeeded in bringing Webb out, who, unfortunately, was 

found to be dead. The hazards were serious owing to the presence of the carbon monoxide gas, intense heat, complete darkness 

except fox the light from a portable acetylene lamp (the carbon covered surroundings absorb all light and give no reflection), the 

deposit of carbon black and the confined space, conditions to which Waterson and Hewitt were unaccustomed. Both Waterson 

aad Stranks suffered badly from gassing and were removed to hospital, and Hewitt suffered to a lesser extent. 

The KING has been pleased to award the King's Police and Fire Services Medal for Distinguished Service to the 

undermentioned Officers: — (Fifth Supplement to the L/G. 37598, 13 th June 1946, pp. 2820.) 


Sidney Parker EGLINGTON, Company Officer (Part-time Retained), No. 13 (Norwich) Fire Force. 

Arthur Albert ASHTON, Assistant Fire Force Commander (Sub-Area Commander), No. 27 (Manchester) Fire Force. 

Harold HYDES, B.E.M., Divisional Officer, No. 37 (London) Fire Force. 

Louis Eldridge CALVO, Fire Force Commander, No. 32 (Worthing) Fire Force. 

Alick Haydon FINNEY, Fire Force Commander, No. 23 (Stoke) Fire Force. 

Fire Services: Northern Ireland. 

John LOGAN, Section Leader (Part-time Retained), Portrush, Co. Antrim. 

13th June, 1946. 


following promotions in, and appointments to, the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: — (Second Supplement to the 

L/G, 37617, 24 th June 1946, pp,3122.) 

To be Additional Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— 

Mary, Mrs. KEITH, lately Regional Woman Fire Officer, Headquarters, National Fire Service. 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: — 

Benjamin John BROWN, Esq., Divisional Officer, No. 10 Region, National Fire Service. 

Howard Douglas DUNCAN, Esq., Assistant Fire Force Commander, Western No. 1 Area of Scotland, National Fire Service. 

24th June, 1946. 


the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned, — (Second Supplement to the L/G, 37617, 24 th June 1946, pp, 

3139.) 

William Thompson GENT, Senior Company Officer, No. 3 (Buxton) Region, National Fire Service. 

John GREENSHIELDS, Leading Fireman, Western (No. 2) Area of Scotland, National Fire Service. 

89

William Oliver HALL, Section Leader, South Eastern Area of Scotland, National Fire Service. 

Miss Margaret Pamela Dalrymple McLAGAN, Leading Firewoman, Fire Service Department, National Fire Service. 

Albert Edward MCCARTHY, Senior Company Officer, No. 5 (London) Region, National Fire Service. 

The KING has been graciously pleased on the occasion of Dominion Day in Canada, and on the advice of His Majesty's 

Canadian Ministers, to give orders for the following promotions in, and appointments to, the Most Excellent Order of the 

British Empire. 

To be additional Officers of the Civil Divisionof the said Most Excellent Order: — (Supplement to the L/G 37633, 1 st July 1946, 

pp. 3340.) 

Ernest LAVIGNE, Esq., Provincial Fire Marshal, Quebec, Quebec. 1st July, 1946. 

The KING has been graciously pleased on the occasion of Dominion Day in Canada, and on the advice of His Majesty's 

Canadian Ministers, to approve the award of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned.: —(Supplement 

to the L/G 37633, 1 st July 1946, pp. 3351.) 

John Joseph de WAAL, Uncommissioned Officer, Corps of (Civilian) Canadian Fire Fighters, Calgary, Aliberta. ( It is well worth 

studying the work of this Corps. They were in no way a token, showcase, Corps.) 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):—(Third Supplement to the L/G. 37693, 20 th August 1946, pp.4176.) 

Leslie MATTHEWS, Compainy Officer, No. 4 (Yorkshire) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

John UTLEY, Leading Fireman, No. 4 (Yorkshire) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

An aircraft crashed in Tockwith and several houses were immediately enveloped by fire. One house was burning furiously and a 

woman was trapped in a bedroom. Company Officer Matthews and Leading Fireman Utley mounted a ladder and, although the 

bedroom was a blazing inferno, without the slightest hesitation they entered the building. Utley located the occupant who was 

partially covered by debris. She was released and passed to Matthews who carried her to safety. Utley was so exhausted that he 

had to be assisted down the ladder. Both Company Officer Matthews and Leading Fireman Utley displayed exceptional bravery. 

COMMENDATIONS. (Supplement to the L/G 36717, 22 nd September 1946, pp. 4439.) 

Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct. When carrying out rescue work in coal mines:— 

Willis Howard EDMUNDS, Fireman, Carway Colliery, Carmarthenshire. 

John RICHARDSON, Leading Fireman, No. 32 (Sussex) Area, National Fire Service. 

To be an Additional Member of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire —(Supplement to the L/G 

37802, 3 rd December 1946, pp. 5891.) 

Walter Sidney VAUGHAN, Column Officer, No 13 (Norwich) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) — 

Horatio Edward Daniel TURNER, Company Officer, No 13 (Norwich) Fire Force, National Fire Service 

A serious fire occurred in a bomb dump at Elveden, Suffolk. Many tons of bombs and ammunition of all calibres were involved. 

Explosions had already ignited a heath in many parts, whilst the breeze was fanning the fire rapidly towards the many stacks of 

bombs. The only access to the heath was along the immediate edge of the sector which was on fire and in which bombs and 

ammunition were exploding. Vaughan and Turner volunteered to try and get two water tenders out on to the heath. Vaughan led 

his appliance along the immediate edge of the involved sector and got through on to the heath. The water tender was hit in a 

dozen places, including the windscreen which was shattered by shrapnel from exploding antipersonnel bombs. When on the 

heath, Vaughan remained in charge of the section allotted to him and, after leading his men continuously for nearly two hours, he 

succeeded in his objective Turner displayed exceedingly high qualities of courage and leadership when explosions of a heavier 

nature occurred and flying shrapnel set fire to another sector of the Bomb Dump where stacks of 250 pound bombs were stored. 

He rallied his small body of men and, disregarding all danger of flying shrapnel and continuous explosions, went in and 

successfully extinguished this fire. Turner set an extremely tine example of cool, calculated courage and leadership, and both he 

and Vaugnan displayed complete imperturbability under extremely dangerous conditions and prevented what would have been a 

catastrophic explosion. 




Order of the British Empire:— 

To be Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: — (Supplement to the L/G. 37835, 1 st January 1947, pp. 

12.) 

David ANDREWS, Esq., lately Fire Services. Commander, National Fire Service, Northern Ireland. 

Geoffrey Vaughan BLACKSTONE, Esq., G.M., Chief Regional Fire Officer, No. 8 (Wales) Region, National Fire Service. (The 

citation associated with the award of Mr. Blackstone‘s George Medal can be found in the August 1941 section of this listing.) 

To be Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G. 37835, 1 st January 1947, 

pp.15.) 

Benjamin Thomas CROWE, Esq., Divisional Officer, No. 24 (Birmingham) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Peter Gillan GAYLOR, Esq., Column Officer, National Fire Service, Northern Ireland. 

William Harold MOORE, Esq., Divisional Officer, Eastern Area of Scotland, National Fire Service. 

90

The KING has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) ito the 


Ronald Venvell KEATES, Company Officer, No.15 (Reading) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

William LAMOND, Company Officer, National Fire Service, Eastern Area of Scotland. 


undermentioned Officers:— (Supplement to the L/G. 37835, 1 st January 1947, pp. 30.) 

William Henry James BENTON, O.B.E., Chief Regional Fire Officer, No. 4 (Eastern) Fire Region. 

Ernest Francis BATCHFORD, Divisional Officer. No. 15 (Reading) Fire Force. 

Tom KNOWLES, Staff Officer with the rank of Divisional Officer, No. 9 (Midland) Regional Fire Headquarters, Birmingham. 

Alfred WOODER, Fire Force Commander, No. 34 (London) Fire Force. 

Edward Webster REANNEY, Column Officer, No. 26 (Liverpool) Fire Force. 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: — 

Benjamin John BROWN, Esq., Divisional Officer, No. 10 Region, National Fire Service. 

KING'S COMMENDATION FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Third Supplement to the L/G/ 37871, 4 th February 1947, pp. 612.) 

Thomas Matson ROBERTS, Company Officer, No. 8 (Wales) Region, National Fire Service. 

For rescuing a man and four horses trapped by flood water. 

Awarded the George Medal— (Second Supplement to the L/G. 37913, 25 th March 1947, pp.1381.) 

Joe BRAIN, Company Officer (Marlborough), National Fire Service. 

Cecil David VANE, Section Leader (Ludgershall). National Fire Service. 


Laurence BEAVES, Leading Fireman (Ludgershall), National Fire Service. 

Frank BRENNAN, Fireman (Marlborough) National Fife Service. 

Frederick James GREEN, Section Leader (Marlborough), National Fire Service. 

A fire broke out at an ammunition and borrib depot in Savernake Forest, Wiltshire. Heavy explosions occurred and trucks, loaded 

with high explosives and land mines, were set alight. Company Officer Brain led the attack on the fire and, despite further 

explosions involving a number of additional trucks which caused casualties amongst personnel under his command, he continued 

to direct operations until ordered to withdraw. He disjplayed outstanding leadership, courage and devotion to duty and set a fine 

example to the men under his command. 

Section Leader Vane attacked the fire at close quarters, using loaded trucks from which to direct jets of water. He also assisted to 

unload trucks. While engaged in these operations two further explosions occurred, one of which destroyed the truck on which he 

had been working. Although some of his men had become casualties he remained at his post and displayed outstanding courage 

and initiative. 

Leading Fireman Beaves and Fireman Brennan, showing complete disregard for their personal safety, continued operations in 

extinguishing fire and unloading trucks containing high explosives and land mines. The second explosion resulted in Beaves 

receiving major injuries which necessitated his removal to hospital. 

Section Leader Green encouraged and directed his men, unloaded trucks containing high explosives and land mines and rendered 

assistance in locating personnel who had been injured as a result of the initial explosion. Green showed devotion to duty and 

determination without thought of self. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): — (Second Supplement to the L/G. 37913, 25 th March 1947, pp. 1382.) 

Joseph Frank DUNAWAY, Hreman, No. 14 (Portsmouth) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

An explosion occurred in the after part of the L.S.T. (Landing Ship, Tank). ‗Maxwell Brander „ which was undergoing repairs and 

conversion. Most of the persons who had been injured at the time of the explosion were removed to hospital but two men were 

trapped below. Oxy-acetylene cutting apparatus was used to cut through the deck plating and an opening was made sufficiently 

large for a man encumbered with breathing apparatus to get through. 

During this operation a second explosion occurred and personnel in the vicinity of the opening were affected by the blast. Fireman 

Dunaway immediately hurried ibelow, taking a line with him, and secured the line to one of the men, who was then hauled up. 

Dunaway was affected by the extreme heat and came up on to the deck but after a brief rest he again went below. He secured tihe 

line to the second man who was immediately hauled out and removed. 

Fireman Dunaway displayed courage with complete disregard of self in effecting the rescues. 

KING'S COMMENDATION FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Second Supplement to the L/G. 37913, 25 th March 1947, pp. 1382.) 

Ernest William PENWARDEN, Leading Fireman, No. 14 (Portsmouth) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

For services on the occasion of a fire in L.S.T. (Landing Ship, Tank.) "Maxwell Brander." 

Whitehall, May 12, 1947. (The L/G. 37960, 20 th May 1947, pp 2251.) 

The KING has. been pleased to award the King's Police and Fire Services Medal for Gallantry, to; 

Clarence Henry William LILLEY,. Company Officer, No. 27 (Manchester) Fire Force. 

91

12th June, 1947. 


following promotions in, and appointments to, the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: — (Second Supplement to the 

L/G, 37977, 12 th June 1947, pp. 2582.) 

To be Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— 

Edward Thomas HAYWARD, Esq., Assistant Inspector-in-Chief, Headquarters, National Fire Service.. 

Miss Violet Muriel GARNER, Senior Woman Officer, No. 8 (Wales) Region, National Fire Service. 

Thomas Anderson McCORKINDALE, Esq., Deputy Fire Force Commander, National Fire Service, Western (No. 2) Area of 

Scotland. 

Whitehall, June 12, 1947 


the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned : — (Second Supplement to the L/G, 37977, 12 th June 1947, 

pp. 2599). 

Gladys Marion, Mrs. BARNES, Assistant Group Officer, No. 39 (Swindon) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

Robert DOUGLAS, Leading Fireman, Western (No. 2) Area of Scotland, National Fire Service. 

Henry Frederick HARDING, Acting Company Officer, No. 5 (London) Regional Headquarters, National Fire Service. 



undermentioned Officers:—(Second Supplement to the L/G, 37977, 12 th June 1947, pp. 2604.) 


Clifford Victor HALL. Fire Force Commander, No. 1 (Newcastle) Fire Force. 

William GAYTON. Assistant Fire Force Commander, No. 20 (Cardiff) Fire Force. 

Ernest THOMAS, Assistant Fire Force Commander, No. 31 (Brighton) Fire Force. 

Edward George HAYLETT, Divisional Officer, No. 9 (Leicester) Fire Force. 

John Cronshaw CRABTREE, Column Officer, No. 29 (Preston) Fire Force. 


Thomas JOHNSON, Senior Company Officer, Eastern Area 

KING'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Second Supplement to the L/G, 38096, 14 th October 1947, pp. 4806.) 

William Joseph JOHNSON, Column Officer, No. 11 (Southend) Fire Force. 

Henry Charles KNIGHT, Constable, Southend Police Force. 

For services when rescuing people trapped in a burning building. 



O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order-— (Supplement to the L/G 38161, 1 st January 

1948, pp.40.) 

Martin CHADWICK, Esq., Fire Force Commander, Western (No.11) Area of Scotland, National Fire Service. 


M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G 38161, 1 st January 

1948, pp.19/20) 

Arthur Archibald CHALMERS, Esq., Assistant Fire Force Commander, Headquarters, National Fire Service. 

Alfred Thomas DUNCOMBE, Esq., Column Officer, No. 40 (Wolverhampton) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

B.E.M. 


undermentioned: — Supplement to the L/G 38161, 1 st January 1948, pp. 36. 

James MCDONALD, Section Leader, National Fire Service, Perth and Kinross Area of Scotland. 

Ernest Arthur RENDELL, Company Officer, No. 39 (Swindon) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 

William John WARD, Company Officer, No. 2 (Middlesborough) Fire Force, National Fire Service. 


undermentioned Officers: — (Supplement to the L/G 38161, 1 st January 1948, pp. 40.) 


Albert Patrick Loisel SULLIVAN, C.B.E., M.M., formerly Chief of Fire Staff and Inspector-in-Chief, National Fire Service 

Headquarters. 

Denis William BATES, Fire Force Commander, No. 37 (London) Fire Force. 

Francis DANN, O.B.E., Fire Force Commander, No. 27 (Manchester) Fire Force. 

Clement Murray KERR, Fire Force Commander, No. 23 (Worcester) Fire Force. 

92

Charles Edward MANT, Company Officer, No. 32 (Worthing) Fire Force. 


Robert Thomas WYLIE, M.B.E., Deputy Fire Force Commander, South Eastern Area, Scotland. 

TUESDAY, 13 JANUARY, 1948 

Whitehall, December 19,. 1947. 

The KING has been pleased to award the Edward Medal to David Brown in recognition of his gallantry in the following 

circumstances: —(London Gazette 38176, 13 th January 1948, pp. 273.) 

An explosion occurred in the Burngrange Shale Mine, West Calder, Midlothian, at about 8 p.m. on Friday, l0th January, 1947, 

when 53 persons were at work underground in the district. Firedamp was ignited by an open acetylene cap lamp and the initial 

explosion started fires which spread rapidly. David Brown, the Overman, descended the pit and proceeded with a fireman to 

explore the narrow workings where men were trapped. Though they encountered smoke for a time it was not sufficiently dense to 

prevent progress but as they passed the junction of another heading increasing smoke compelled their withdrawal. 

After waiting a few minutes Brown made another attempt, alone, to get inbye. He actually got in to No. 3 Dookhead, where he 

shouted but got no response. He saw no signs, of the inbye men nor of their lights, and he was forced to withdraw again. On his 

way outbye, he again met the fireman, who said he had been trying to improve the atmospheric conditions in the inbye section by 

a partial opening of some brattice screen doors, but this step was of no avail. The atmospheric conditions were getting worse all 

the time, due to the spreading of the fires, the extent and seriousness of which even then were not generally realized. Brown, 

however, did realize the seriousness of the position in relation to the trapped men and immediately sent word explaining the 

position to the manager who was dealing with fires elsewhere, asking for all possible assistance and making it quite clear that there 

was no hope of undertaking further exploratory work without the use of rescue teams wearing self-contained breathing apparatus. 

He then set out to discover for himself where all the smoke was coming from. Although the National Fire Service was never 

intended for fire-fighting underground in mines, nevertheless, a team at once volunteered for this duty. Two members of the team 

donned their one hour Proto-Breathing Apparatus. Underground, they met the overman, Brown, who pleaded for the use of the 

two sets of Proto-Apparatus, so that he and another trained member of the Burngrahge Mines Rescue Team could make another 

attempt to get into the workings beyond No. 3 Dook. Using the one-hour apparatus borrowed from the N.F.S, Brown and his 

companion made an unsuccessful .attempt to rescue the trapped men. At 11.15 pm. under the captaincy of Brown a fresh team 

wearing goggles and using a life-line again attempted to reach the men but were forced to return as the temperature was very high 

and the smoke so dense that their lights could not be seen. There had been a fall of stone ard sounds of strata movement were 

heard. Further attempt along another level led to the discovery of another fire and it became certain that there was no hope of 

saving the men until this was under control. 

The work of firefighting continued for four days and it was not until the night of 13th/14th January, that it was considered 

practicable to send a rescue team beyond the fire area. With one exception, the bodies of all the 15 men who lost their lives by the 

effect of afterdamp and fumes were in No. 3 Dock. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the following awards of the British Empire Medal and for the 


Commendation for their brave conduct. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) —(Third Supplement to the L/G 38201, 10 th February 1948, pp. 953.) 

Thomas Matson ROBERTS, Company Officer, No. 22 (North Wales) Fire Force. 

A man was trapped on Pen Cae, Cader Idris, and a request was made to the National Fire Service at Dolgelley Fire Station, to 

assist in the-rescue. The party, consisting of Police, Royal Marine Commandos and Firemen, was split up, and the N.F S. party 

were detailed to make the ascent, the cliff in question, the Craig Cae of the Cader Range being about 1,200 ft. high. 

After several attempts had been made to make the summit, it was decided to try a narrow gully packed with scree. In the darkness 

the climb was both long and arduous but eventually the party reached the ridge. The position of the trapped man was very 

uncertain and it was not possible to see or hear him. The party at the foot then signalled that it was impossible to get up the rock 

from below while darkness lasted and the search was reluctantly called off until daylight. 

Company Officer Roberts and a Fireman stayed for the remainder of the night within shouting distance of the man. At daybreak 

the search was resumed. A heavy mist further impeded progress and made the need for a quick rescue very necessary. By using 

every ledge and crack in the rock face, the two men eventually made their height by backing up a chimney. Company Officer 

Roberts then went the last lap alone. Working with elbows and knees, he made his way along a narrow ledge and was at last able 

to reach the trapped man Roberts had to lift him bodily to get him to the top of the chimney. He was then brought down to safety. 

Company Officer Roberts displayed courage and determination in effecting this most difficult rescue. 

KING'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Third Supplement to the L/G 38201, 10 th February 1948, pp. 954.) 

Tom Meredyth BROOKES, Fireman, No. 22 (North Wales) Fire Force. 

For services when assisting in the rescue of a mountain-climber. 


The KING has been pleased to award the King's Police and Fire Services Medal for Gallantry to undermentioned, (The L/G. 

38344, 23 rd March 1944, pp. 2025.) 

Roland BARROW, Section Leader, No 26 (Liverpool) Fire Force. 

93

28th May, 1948. 

The KING has been pleased by Warrant under His Majesty's Royal Sign Manual bearing date 21th May, -1948, to appoint Mr. 

Angus Douglas Wilson to be Inspector of Fire Services for Scotland in terms of The Fire Services Act,1947. (L/G. 38307, 1 st 

June 1948, pp. 3253.) 

10th June, 1948. 

The KING has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration of His Ma]esty's Birthday, to give orders for the 

following promotions in, and appointments to, the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: — 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G 38311, 10th June 

1948. pp.3377.) 

James ROSS, Esq., Fire Force Commander, North Eastern Area-of Scotland. 


the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned:--(Supplement to the L/G 38311, 10th June 1948. pp.3393.) 

Joseph WESTWOOD, Jun, Senior Company Officer, Fire Staff, Scottish Home Department. (Kirkcaldy, Fife.) 


undermentioned officers: — (Supplement to the L/G 38311, 10th June 1948, pp. 3395. ) 

Percy Pickersgill BOOTH, O.B.E., former Chief Regional Fire Officer, No. 2 (Leeds) Region. 

Arthur Alfred DAVIS, QBE., former Chief Regional Fire Officer, No 12 (Tunbridge Wells) Region. 

Frank BITTEN, M.B.E, former Assistant Chief of Fire Staff, National Fire Service Headquarters 

James Alexander MITCHELL, Esq , lately Divisional Officer, National Fire Service, Northern Ireland. 

James ROSS, Esq. Fire Force Commander, North Eastern Area-of Scotland. 

Norman Amscough SWARBRICK, former Divisional Officer, No. 10 (Manchester) Region. 

Daniel Durnford IVALL, former Assistant Fire Force Commander, No. 37 (London) Fire Force. 

Fire Services. Scotland 

James Taylor DAVIDSON, O.B.E., Fire Force Commander, N.F S, Central Area of Scotland. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the undermentioned awards of a Bar to the British Empire Medal and 

of the British Empire Medal, and for the publication in the London Gazette of the persons specially shown below as having 

received an expression of Commendation for their brave conduct in Civil Defence: —(Fourth Supplement to the L.G. 37181, 

17 th July 1948, pp. 3675.) 

Awarded a Bar to the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): 

Alfred Edward JONES, B.E.M., Company Officer, No. 36 (London) Area, National Fire Service. —(It is unusual, if not very 

unusual for a holder of the B.E.M. to be awarded a second B.E.M. Alfred‘s first award was granted 27/04/1941 for work during 

raids on the Dagenham area.) 

Awarded the British Empire Medal. (Civil Division): — 

Joseph Henry EVES, Party Leader, Civil Defence Rescue Service, East Ham. 

People were trapped in a house which had been damaged by enemy action. Jones and Eves tunnelled into the debris and rescued a 

boy who was unconscious. They then made another tunnel about 20 ft. long and, after about an hour's work, discovered an 

unconscious woman. Oxygen was administered, and after further efforts she was released. 

This rescue took three hours to complete and during the whole of this period there was the possibility of a further collapse of 

debris, and the continued presence of coal gas hindered the course of the operations. Jones and Eves' showed courage and 

devotion to duty without thought for their own safety. 


Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct in Civil Defence: — (Fourth Supplement to the L.G. 37181, 17 th 

July 1948, pp. 3676.) 

Henry John STANDEN, Leading Fireman, No. 36 (London) Area, National Fire Service. 

Leonard WOPLIN, Warden, Civil Defence Wardens Service, East Ham. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division}:— (Fourth Supplement to the L.G. 37181, 17 th July 1948, pp. 3678.) 

Robert James WYNNE, Section Leader, River Thames Formation, National Fire Service. 

Two vessels, one of which was a tanker, collided. Petrol gushed out and was showered over the two ships and on to the water. At 

the same time the rending metal sparked sufficiently to cause the petrol to ignite and instantly the two ships were enveloped by 

flames. 

Section Leader Wynne who was in charge of the Fireboat "Laureate" brought his ship alongside the tanker and, undeterred by the 

fact that all the crew of the tanker except two had abandoned ship, led his crew on board and resolutely tackled the fire with foam. 

The men worked their way across the ship, across a burning hot deck, using the break of the fo'c'sle as a screen, to the burst and 

burning tank on the port side. 

Gradually the flames were smothered and, out of a cargo of 8,000 tons of petrol, only about 350 tons had been lost. Wynne, by his 

prompt and resolute action, was the means of saving the ship and prevented what might have been a disastrous fire. 


Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct. (Fourth Supplement to the L.G. 37181, 17 th July 1948, pp. 3678.) 

94

When ships collided and caught fire:— 

Frederick Edmund BONNER, Leading Fireman, River Thames Formation, National Fire Service. 

Reginald John COX, Fireman, River Thames Formation, National Fire Service. 

Walter William DIPLOCK, Section Leader, River Thames Formation, National Fire Service. 

Philip Percy DIWER, Leading Fireman, River Thames Formation, National Fire Service. 

Alfred Charles HUGGINS, Fireman, River Thames Formation, National Fire Service. 

William George SCRAGG, Fireman, River Thames Formation, National Fire Service. 

Thomas Henry SETCHELL, Fireman, River Thames Formation, National Fire Service. 

Frank TYTE, Fireman, River Thames Formation, National Fire Service. 

Norman Harry WILLIAMSON, Fireman, River Thames Formation, National Fire Service. 

When removing smouldering ammunition from a train:— (Fouth Supplement to the L.G. 37181, 17 th July 1948, pp. 3679.) 

Ernest John CONSTABLE, Section Leader, No. 31 (East Grinstead) Area, National Fire Service. 


Those named below have been Commended for brave conduct::— (Third Supplement of the L/G. 37250, 4 th September 1945, 

pp. 4435.) 

When a fire broke out at a Royal Air Force bomb store: — 

Henry Austin GIBSON, Divisional Officer, No. 10 (Lincoln) Area, National Fire Service. 

George JACKSON, Fireman, No. 10 (Lincoln) Area, National Fire Service. 

Richard Dugdale MELLORS, Leading Fireman, No. 10 {Lincoln) Area, National Fire Service. 

Ralph RINGROSE, Leading Fireman, No. 10 (Lincoln) Area, National Fire Service. 

Douglas SARGENT, B.E.M., Divisional Officer, No. 10 (Lincoln) Area, National Fire Service. 

Robert Edwin WHITBY, Fireman, No. 10 (Lincoln) Area, National Fire Service. 


23rd November, 1948. 


shown below as having received an expression of Commendation for their brave conduct: — (Supplement to the L/G. 38464, 

23 rd November 1948, pp. 6137). 

KING'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. 

John Henry COTTON, Sub-Officer, Essex County Fire Brigade. 

Albert William MUMMERY, Fireman, Essex County Fire Brigade. 

For services when a child fell down a well. 


To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division. of the said Most Excellent Order: — (Supplement to the L/G 38493, 1 st January 

1949, pp. 14.) 

John. Arthur OLDER, Esq., Administrative Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: — 

William Henry BEARD, Esq., Chief Clerk, Birmingham Fire Brigade. 

William Richard John DUFFETT, Esq., Chief Clerk, Hampshire County Fire Brigade. 

Marshall LAWSON, Esq., lately Column Officer, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to approve award of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned: 

—(Supplement to the L/G 38493, 1 st January 1949, pp. 28.) 

Charles Henry MAYCOCK, Station Officer, Leicestershire Fire Brigade (Market Harborough). 

Alexander MILLS, Section Leader, Central Area Fire Brigade, Stirling. 

Thomas RILEY, Fireman, Coatbridge, Lanarkshire. 



undermentioned officers:— (Supplement to the London Gazette 38493, 1 st January 1949, pp. 32.) 

Charles Phillip McDUELL, O.B.E., Deputy Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Burt .BELLAMY, Chief Officer, Oldham Fire Brigade. 

William Edward NORWOOD, Assistant Inspector, Home Office Fire Inspectorate. 

Haydon George Harry HARRIS, Station Officer (Part-time), Dorset County Fire Service. 

Fire Services: Scotland 

Alexander McDonald HUME, Senior Company Officer, South Eastern Fire Brigade. 

KING'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Third Supplement to the L/G. 38561, 15 th March 1949, pp. 1328.) 

Robert BINNS, Fireman, Rochdale Fire Brigade. For services when a fire occurred in a cotton mill. 

95

The KING has.been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration. of His Majesty's Birthday, to give orders .for the 

following promotions in, and appointments to, the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: —(Supplement to the L/G, 

38628, 9 th June 1949, pp. 2804.) 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order :— 

Joseph CLITHEROW, Esq., M.B.E., Chief Officer, Liverpool Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order :— 

Thomas Reginald BATES, Esq., Divisional Officer, Lancashire County Fire Brigade. 

John McKELLAR, Esq., Inspector of Fire Services, Belfast. 

James Duncan McNICOL, Esq., Deputy Firemaster, Central Area Fire Brigade, Glasgow. pp. 2810. 

Alexander MASSON, Esq., Firemaster, Perth and Kinross Fire Brigade. 

Arthur NETHERWOOD, Esq., Chief Officer, Croydon Fire Brigade. 

Alexander Hodge NISBET, Esq., G.M., M.B.E., Firemaster, Lanarkshire Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— 

Norman KETTLEWELL, Esq., Chief Officer, West Hartlepool Fire Brigade. 

The KING has been pleased to award the King's Police and Fire Services Medal, for Distinguished Service, to the 

undermentioned Officers: — (Supplement to the London Gazettee, 38628, 9 th June 1949, pp. 2825.) 


Gilbert John Tudway CAINS, Chief Officer, Nottingham Fire Brigade. 

Herbert James REYNOLDS, Chief Officer, Sheffield Fire Brigade. 

James Charles TWEEDDALE, Divisional Officer, Essex County Fire Brigade. 

Ernest SMITH, Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

KING'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Third Supplement to the L/G/ 38645, 21 st June 1949, pp. 3054.) 

Lionel Alfred HOARE, Leading Fire Patrolman, Ministry of Supply Depot, Hayes, Middlesex. For services in capturing a thief 

who had robbed a Post Office. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):—(Third Supplement to the L/G. 38680, 2 nd August 1949, pp. 3757.) 

William George BIRD, Assistant Divisional Officer, Surrey Fire Brigade. (London, S.W.19.) 

Bird attended a fire to which the Brigade had been called at premises in which a cylinder of dissolved acetylene was involved. 

The cylinder was in the basement and when Bird arrived, the basement and ground floor were already on fire and the cylinder 

itself had reached a very high temperature and was consequently in an extremely dangerous condition. 

Bird closed the main valve of the cylinder and recognising the position as being hazardous, he decided to disconnect the cylinder 

and remove it to the open yard. Accordingly Bird disconnected the cylinder and moved it to the doorway from which it was 

carried to the yard via a ramp, and cooling operations began. Some twelve minutes after its removal the cylinder exploded and 

Bird was injured. 

By his action Bird displayed great coolness and a complete disregard of his own safety. 

Whitehall, December 9, 1949. (The London Gazette, 38779. 9 th December 1949, pp.1). 

The KING has been pleased, by Warrant under His Majesty's Royal Sign Manual, bearing date the 1st instant, to appoint. Albert 

Victor Thomas, Esq. G.M. to be an Inspector of Fire Services, in the room of Frank Bitten, Esq., M.B.E., who has resigned. 


2nd January, 1950. 


Order of the British Empire :— (Supplement to the L/G.38797, 2nd January 1950, pp. 27.) 

James CARR, Company Officer, Angus Area Fire Brigade, Dundee. 

Edward DAWES, Station Officer, Somerset County Fire Brigade. (Clevedon.) 

Thomas Kingston JARVIS, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. (Mile End, E.I). 

Walter SCOTT, Leading Fireman, South Eastern Fire Brigade, Hawick. 

Glyndwr THOMAS, Assistant Divisional Officer, Glamorgan County Fire Brigade. (Port Talbot.) 



undermentioned Officers: — (Supplement to the L/G 38797, 2 nd January 1950, pp. 33.) 

Fire Service: England and Wales. 

Arthur Harry SPENCE, B.E.M., Chief Officer, Northampton Borough Fire Brigade. 

Francis WINTERINGHAM, M.B.E., Chief Officer, Suffolk and Ipswich Combined Fire Brigade. 

Victor William Nelson BOTTEN, M.B.E., Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Harold James COX, Station Officer (Part-time), Camberley, Surrey Fire Brigade. 

Ernest Walter MARSHALL, Instructor, Fire Service College. 

96

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): —(Third Supplement to the L/G, 38913, 16 th May 1950. pp. 2429.) 

James Maul FLEMMING, Leading Fireman, London Fire Brigade. (Camberwell, S.E.5.) 

When a fire broke out in the Flower Market at Covent Garden, Fireman Flemming, wearing breathing apparatus, entered the 

basement by way of a goods conveyor shaft and was working on the fire when he heard an appeal for help. With some difficulty 

he located the caller, another member of the Fire Brigade, who was in a state of partial collapse and unable to walk unaided. 

Fireman Flemming half pushed and half carried the man to the foot of the conveyor shaft but in doing so dislodged the nose clip of 

his own breathing apparatus set, which resulted hi his inhaling considerable quantities of smoke. He succeeded, however, in lifting 

his colleague on to the bottom of the conveyor shaft which was about 3 ft. 6 ins. from ground level but by this time was himself in 

a state of collapse. 

Knowing that he would -be unable to complete the rescue alone, he climbed up the conveyor shaft to the street and obtained the 

help of other firemen. He then collapsed. Fireman Flemming displayed great determination and courage in particularly hazardous 

circumstances. 

KING'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Third Supplement to the L/G, 38913, 16 th May 1950,. pp. 2430.) 

Hugh Lloyd ABBIT, Assistant Divisional Officer, London Fire .. Brigade. (East Dulwich, S.E.22.). 

For services when a fire broke out in the basement of .the Flower Market at Covent Garden. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:—(Supplement to the L/G, 38929, 8 th June 

1950 pp 2786.) 

Alfred WOODER, Esq., Chief Officer, Middlesex and Fire and Ambulance Service. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— . pp. 2789 

William THOMAS, Esq., Chief Officer, Bradford Fire Brigade 

Leonard Alfred WOOD, Esq, Chief Officer, Bournemouth Fire Brigade.pp.2789. 

8th June, 1950. 

The KING has been graciously pleased, onthe occasion of the Celebration of His Majesty's Birthday, to approve the award of 

the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned: — (Supplement to the L/G. 38929, 8 th June 1950. pp. 2804.) 

Alfred Henry TAYLOR, Station Officer, Wiltshire Fire Brigade. (Chippenham.) 

David Robb WALKER, Leading Fireman, South Western Fire Brigade, Lockerbie. 



undermentioned officers:—(Supplement to the L/G. 38929, 8 th June 1950. pp. 2806.) 


Joseph Young KIRKUP, M.B.E., Chief Officer, Bristol Fire Brigade. 

James MACKENZIE; Chief-Officer, Newcastle upon Tyne Fire Brigade. 

George Henry Ernest McKAY, Divisional Officer, Birkenhead Fire Brigade. 

Edward Arthur BAKER, Divisional Officer, West Sussex Fire Brigade. , 

Fire Service: Scotland. 

Alexander Bookless CRAIG, O.B.E., Firemaster, South Eastern Fire Brigade. 

Fire Service : Northern Ireland..' 

Verner MCAFEE, Fire Officer, Southern Fire Authority. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G. 38929, 8 th June 1950. 

pp. 2806.) 

Edward George KIRRAGE, Esq., Assistant Chief Officer, Surrey Fire Brigade. pp 2792. 

Edward William SALES, Esq., Chief Officer, Rochdale Fire Brigade. pp 2793. 

Leslie Stuart SMITH, Esq., Divisional Officer, Hertfordshire Fire Brigade. 

Leonard Alfred WOOD, Esq, Chief Officer, Bournemouth Fire Brigade 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): — (Third Supplement to the L/G. 38982, 1 st August 1950,. pp. 3951.) 

Thomas STEPHENS, Chargeman of Skilled Labourers, Royal Naval Establishment, Sydenham, Belfast. 

An aircraft crashed at Sydenham Airport, Belfast, when taking-off for a test flight. There were two passengers in the machine 

which on impact with the, ground immediately caught fire. 

Stephens, then leading fireman in charge of the duty firecrew at the Royal Naval Establishment, Sydenham, saw that the aircraft 

was about to crash nearby and ran towards it, instructing his crew to follow. Before he reached the machine, however, it had burst 

into flames. Without a moment's hesitation and with complete disregard of self, he continued in his efforts, succeeded in reaching 

the burning aircraft and, in spite of the intense heat, extricated one passenger from the wreckage. Stephens knowingly risked his 

life and was severely burned in effecting the rescue of the passenger. 

KING'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Third Supplement to the L/G. 38982, 1 st August 1950,. pp. 3951.) 

Henry HARRIS, Fireman, Durham Fire Brigade. (Felling, Co. Durham.) 

For attempting to rescue a boy from a quarry pond. 

97

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire:— (Third Supplement to the 

L/G/ 39089, 12 th December 1950, pp. 6195.) 

Howard Frederick GRIFFITHS. Divisional Officer, Hampshire Fire Service. 

Joseph Launcelot STOBART, Deputy Armament Supply Officer, R.N. Armament Depot, Bedenham, Gosport. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) 

Lionel Mornington ABBS, Station Officer, Hampshire Fire Service. 

Donald James Davidson MCGREGOR, Station Officer, Hampshire Fire Service. 

Edward Alfred MARSH, Chief Inspector, Admiralty Constabulary, Bedenham and Priddy's Hard Group. 

Charles Edward WALDER, Police Constable, Admiralty Constabulary, Bedenham and Priddy's Hard Group. 

William Charles WOODS, Police Sergeant, Admiralty Constabulary, Bedenham and Priddy's Hard Group. 

A fire ocurred on a barge loaded with ammunition which was moored at the pier head of the R.N. Armament Depot, Bedenham; 

Gosport. Access to the pier, which was more than half a mile from the Depot entrance, .was possible only by way of a railway 

track. 

Station Officer McGregor was first on the scene and gave instructions for a railway bogey to be loaded with fire fighting 

equipment. He and his crew took this to within 150 yards of the seat of the fire where the ammunition train on the pier head and 

other barges moored alongside were burning with great intensity. Divisional Officer Griffiths then arrived and was joined by 

Station Officer Abbs. The situation developed rapidly and Griffiths ordered his men to take shelter whilst he himself went 

forward to obtain a closer view of what was actually happening. As he went forward he could see that the amunition train was 

burning fiercely and that the sides of the ammunition trucks were already falling apart. 

Shortly afterwards the first and major explosion occurred. Some of the men were injured and McGregor assisted in dealing with 

the casualties and getting them, removed to hospital. Divisional Officer Griffiths then reorganised the fire fighters into two parties, 

one under Station Officer McGregor and the other under Station Officer Abbs. 

By this time numerous small fires were burning amongst the grass around the magazines and McGregor took control of that 

portion of the Depot lying on the east side of the railway track. He was warned at this time that a further-explosion was imminent, 

but despite this he deployed his men skilfully and effectively to deal with the many incipient fires which at this stage were 

threatening to create a very serious situation. 

It was not practicable to use water and McGregor and his crew had to beat out flames around the magazines and a number of 

loaded ammunition trucks in the sidings. Whilst so engaged they were out in the open and caught in the blast of .tiie second major 

explosion. McGregor re-deployed his men to tackle fresh outbreaks and as a result of his persistence the fires were gradually 

brought under control. 

Abbs took over command of the territory on the west side of the railway track where .numerous small fires had started. He 

organised parties to combat these fires and to search the magazines containing ammunition to see if they had been affected by 

burning debris. He had been warned of the danger of. a second explosion but he carried out his task with energy and courage and 

succeeded in gaining control of the fires in his sector when the second explosion occurred. The fire was subdued early the next 

day. 

Divisional Officer Griffiths with complete disregard of his safety, displayed courage, coolness and leadership in very hazardous 

circumstances. 

Station Officer McGregor showed splendid leadership in the face of great danger, looked to the welfare of the injured and his 

courage was an inspiration to the men working under his command. 

The coolness with which Station Officer Abbs carried out his duties in the face of extreme danger played a very material part in 

preventing what might have proved to be a major disaster. 

As the Senior Officer of the Department at the scene of. the fire, Stobart carried out his assignment in.an. exceptionally cool and 

courageous manner in the face of considerable danger from explosives and flying debris. The possibility of further mass 

explosions did not deter him from pressing forward to the Pier whenever possible in order to obtain accurate information. His 

devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger was exemplary. 

Chief Inspector Marsh was early on the scene of the fire before the mass explosion and throughout, in personal danger from flying 

debris, carried out his duties with commendable calmness of judgment and was responsible for the removal of an ammunition train 

of twelve loaded trucks from the danger area. 

Police Sergeant Woods organised an attempt to bring into action a hose from the hydrant at Bedenham Pier foot. Police Constable 

Walder took the branch pipe and scrambled along the pier on hands and knees to avoid bursting ammunition in the endeavour to 

get a hose out to the burning lighter. Woods directed operations and with outstanding devotion to duty both men persisted in their 

efforts until ordered to withdraw. 

KING'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Third Supplement to the L/G/ 39089, 12 th December 1950, pp. 6197.) 

Edward James HILL, Coxswain of Fire Float, H.M. Dockyard, Portsmouth. (Southsea.) 

Leonard George LILLYWHITE, Fireman, Hampshire Fire Service. (Gosport.) 

For services when fires broke out in ammunition lighters and trucks loaded with explosives at the Royal Naval Armament Depot, 

Bedenham, Gosport. 



To be Ordinary Officers, of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:—(Supplement to the L/G, 39104, 1 st January 

1951) 

98

Henry William COLEMAN, Esq., O.B;E., Chief Officer, Birmingham Fire Brigade. 

Fred DEWHURST, Esq., M.I.Mech.E., Engineer .and Works Manager, London Fire Brigade. 

Tom KNOWLES, Esq., Chief Officer, Cambridgeshire Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G, 39104, 1 st January 1951, 

pp15.) 

Arthur Edward BOWLES, Esq., Assistant Chief Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

William HOLLAND, Esq., Deputy Chief Officer, East Sussex Fire Brigade. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the British EmpireMedal (Civil Division) to the 

undermentioned, (Supplement to the L/G, 39104, 1 st January 1951, pp. 28.) 

Robert DUNCAN, Senior Company Officer, Perth and Kinross Fire Brigade. (Perth.) 

Alick GARDNER, Chief Officer, Works Fire Brigade, Armstrong-Siddeley Motors, Ltd., Coventry. 

Thomas William GRAY, J.P., Fireman, Bowhill :Colliery, Scottish Division, National Coal Board. (Cardenden) 

Richard William John HELYER, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. (Dalston, E.8.) 

Charles Matthew SPITTLES, Sub-Officer, Buckinghamshire Fire Brigade. (Wendover) 


The KING has been pleased to award.the King's Police and Fire Services Medal, for Distinguished Service, to the 

undermentioned officers: — (Supplement to the L/G. 39104, 1 st January 1951, pp. 32.) 

Edward George HOBBS, Chief Officer. Buckinghamshire Fire Brigade. . 

Sidney Albert PHILLIPS, M.B.E., M.M.. Chief Officer, Eastbourne Fire Brigade. 

Windsor Percy JORGENSEN, Divisional Officer,- Manchester Fire Brigade. 

Claud. PETLEY, Station Officer (part-time). Kent Fire Brigade.' 


William Francis MCLAUGHLIN, Divisional Officer, Glasgow Fire Brigade: 


The KING has been pleased, by Warrant under His Majesty's Royal Sign Manual bearing date the 1st instant, to appoint Arthur 

Edward Bowles, Esq., M.B.E., to be an Inspector of Fire Services, in the room of Henry Ernest Skillern, Esq., who has resigned. 

(The L/G 39121, 12 th January 1951, pp. 249.) 

KING'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Ninth Supplement to the L/G. 39251, 5 th June 1951, pp. 3121.) 

Aubrey Bryan COOK, Fireman (Part-time), Leicester and Rutland Fire Services. (Syston, Leicestershire.) 

For rescuing two children from a burning bungalow. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:—(Supplement to the L/G. 39243, 7 th June 1951, 

pp. 3073. 

Cyril Thomas DEMARNE, Esq., Chief Officer, West Ham Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— .(Supplement to the L/G 39234, 7 th June 

1951, pp. 3077.) 

Alexander James GREENSLADE, Esq., Chief Officer, Bootle Fire Brigade, Lancashire. 

John SWANSON, Esq., Assistant Firemaster, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

Alfred William THOMPSON Esq., Divisional Officer, Middlesex Fire. Brigade. 

7th June, 1951. 


the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned: — (Supplement to the L/G. 39243, 7 th June 1951, pp. 3088.) 

William James CAMPBELL, Section Leader, Northern Area Fire Brigade, Scotland. (Wick.) 

Archibald Felix EDWARDS, Sub-Officer, Berkshire and Reading Fire Brigade. (Sonning, Berkshire.) 

Wilfred Joseph JENKIN, Station Officer, Cornwall Fire Brigade. (Newquay.) 



undermentioned officers:—(Supplement to the L/G. 39243, 7th June 1951, pp. 3093.) 


Arthur Hedley JOHNSTONE, C.B.E. Chief Officer, Surrey Fire Brigade. 

William Edward SWEET, M.B.E. Chief Officer, Smethwick and West Bromwich Fire Brigade. 

William Francis REDMAN, Chief Officer, Swansea Fire Brigade. 

James Thomas HOLE, Divisional Officer, Birmingham Fire and Ambulance Service. 

Herbert Alfred Charles SMITH, Chief Officer, Derby Fire Brigade. 

99

20th November, 1951. 

The KING has been graciously pleased to make the undermentioned awards: —(Third supplement to the L/G 39387, 20 th 

November 1951, pp. 6053.) 

GEORGE CROSS. 

George Campbell HENDERSON (deceased), Sub- Officer, Gibraltar Dockyard Fire Service. 

Sub-Officer Henderson was in charge of the first fire appliance sent to fight an ammunition fire on board a lighter alongside the 

naval armament vessel "Bedenham". In spite of the great heat and intensity of the fire which, he must have realised, was virtually 

out of control and would cause a violent explosion of ammunition at any moment, Sub-Officer Henderson managed single-handed 

to direct a jet of water into the lighter from a position on board "Bedenham", immediately alongside and above the blazing lighter. 

"Bedenham" had by this time been abandoned but Henderson remained at his place of duty alone doing what he could to prevent 

the explosion although he must have known that his chance of survival was slight. He was killed when the ammunition blew up. 

Sub-Officer Henderson displayed courage of the highest order in the face of almost certain death. 


To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— 

William Douglas OUTRAM, Esq., Chief Officer, Hull Fire Brigade. (Supplement L/G, 39421, 1 st January 1952, pp. 15) 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: — (Supplement L/G, 39421, 1 st January 1952, 

pp. 19.) 

Leslie William Thomas LEETE, Esq., Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Charles Owen MITCHELL, Esq., Divisional Officer, Somerset Fire Brigade. 

William Henry WOODS, Esq., Divisional Officer, North Eastern Area of Scotland Fire Brigade. 

Philip Shepley WILSON-DICKSON, Esq., Instructor-Secretary, Fire Service College, Dorking, Surrey 


undermentioned, —(Supplement to the L/G 39421, 1 st January 1952, pp 31.) 

Robert McPhail MCLELLAN, Company Officer, Western Scotland Area Fire Brigade. (Greenock.). 



undermentioned officers: —( Supplement to the L/G 39421, 1 January 1952, pp 35.) 

Thomas BRUCE, G.M., Chief Officer, Sunderland Fire Brigade. (see page 31 for the C.F.O‘s G.M. citation). 

John Leslie JOHNSON, Chief Officer, Portsmouth Fire Brigade. 

Oliver Henry Bengough LEEK, Chief Officer, Breconshire and Radnorshire Fire Brigade. 


Martin CHADWICK, O.B.E., Firemaster, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

Fire Service: Northern Ireland. 

Thomas John Gordon MORTON, District Officer, Belfast Fire Brigade. 

On the 15 th June a detachment representing the British Fire Services formed part of the funeral procession The black edged L/G 

reported; ( Supplement to the L/G 39575, 19 th June 1952, pp.3345.) 

On THURSDAY, 19th JUNE, 1952 The London Gazette reported the details of the funeral of King George VI who died at 

Sandringham on the 6 th February 1952. 

CEREMONIALS OBSERVED AT THE ARRIVAL OF THE REMAINS OF HIS LATE MAJESTY KING GEORGE THE 

SIXTH, OF BLESSED MEMORY, FOR THE LYING IN STATE AT WESTMINSTER HALL: 

AND AT HIS LATE MAJESTY'S FUNERAL. 

FEBRUARY 1952. 

Fire Services Contingent. 

Mr. F. W. Delve, C.B.E., Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

A detachment from the Fire Services of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. 

Civil Defence Corps Contingent. 

Captain A. G. Petrie, M.B.E., Chief Warden, Middlesex. 

A detachment of the Civil Defence Corps of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. 

Fifty-six Minute Guns were fired while the Procession moved from Westminster Hall to Paddington Station. 

On arrival at Paddington Station the Coffin was taken from the Gun Carriage by the Bearer Party of the King's Company of the 

Grenadier Guards and placed in the Royal Train, which conveyed The Queen and the other Royal Personages to Windsor. 

On arrival at Windsor the Royal Coffin, covered by the Royal Standard, and with the Crown, Sceptre and Orb laid thereon, and 

preceded by the Earl Marshal, was removed from the train by the Bearer Party of the King's Company, Grenadier Guards, and 

placed upon a Gun Carriage drawn by Naval Ratings. 

100

KING'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Second Supplement to the L/G 39465, 12 th February 1952, pp. 851.) 

Alun ROBERTS, Station Officer, Caernarvon Fire Brigade. (Bangor.) 

Hugh Lloyd ROBERTS, Fireman, Caernarvon Fire Brigade. (Llanfairfechan.) 

Lefi WILLIAMS, Ambulance Driver, Caernarvon Ambulance Service. (Conway.) 

For services when a railway accident occurred. 

QUEEN'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— 

James CORRIGAN, Sub-Officer, West Hartlepool Fire Brigade. 

Geoffrey Mather TOZER, Fireman, West Hartlepool Fire Brigade. 

For attempting to rescue a boy from drowning 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:—(Supplement to the L/G/ 39555, 5 th June 

1952, pp. 3018.) 

Henry Martin SMITH, Esq. O.B.E. H.M. Chief Inspector of Fire Services, Home Office. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G. 39555, 5 th June 1952, 

pp. 3017.) 

Denis William BATES, Esq. Chief Officer, Glamorganshire Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G. 39555, 5 th June 

1952, pp. 3026/7.) 

Frank Laurence MURRELL, Esq. Deputy Chief Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. 

William ROBERTSON, Esq. Column Officer, South-Eastern Area Fire Brigade, Scotland. 

Reginald James TICKNER, Esq. Deputy Chief Officer, Southampton Fire Brigade. 

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration of Her Majesty's Birthday, to approve the award 

of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division)., to the undermentioned: —(Supplement to the L/G. 39555, 5 th June 1952, pp. 

3035.) 

Miss Marie HAYNES, Group Officer, Liverpool Fire Brigade (Leicester.) 

James GORDON, Leading Firefighter, Scottish Division, National Coal Board. (Kirkcaldy.) 

Harry RILEY, Sub-Officer, Lancashire Fire Brigade. (Colne.) 

Theodore Laurence RANDALL, Station Officer, Norfolk Fire Brigade. (Cromer.) 

Robert Norman STEWART, Leading Fireman, Central Area Fire Brigade, Dollar, .Clackmannanshire. 

John William WHITWORTH, Assistant Divisional Officer, Worcester City and. County Fire Brigade. (Stouribridge,) 


The QUEEN has been pleased to award, the King's Police and Fire Services Medal, for Distinguished Service, to the 

undermentioned officers:— (Supplement to the L/G. 39555, 5 th June 1952, pp. 3041.) 

FIRE SERVICE: ENGLAND AND WALES. 

William Howard BARKER, Chief Officer, Devon Fire Brigade. 

John George JESSOP, Chief Officer, Wolverhampton Fire Brigade. 

Thomas BELL, Divisional Officer, Essex Fire Brigade. 

Alfred Samuel SHAWYER, Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

FIRE SERVICE: SCOTLAND. 

William Harold MOORE, Firemaster, Fife Area Fire Brigade. 

QUEEN'S COMMENDATION FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Third Supplement to the L/G. 39719, 16 th December 1952, pp. 

6617.) 

Frank HILTON, Divisional Officer, Grade III, Birkenhead Fire Brigade. 

For services when a street gas main caught fire. 


30th December, 1952. 

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to give orders for the following awards of the George Medal and of the British 

Empire Medal, and for the publication in the London Gazette of the names of those specially shown below as having received 

an expression of Commendation for their brave conduct. (Supplement to the L/G 39730, 26 th December 1952, pp 6827.) 

Awarded the George Medal:— 

Derek Raymond Alan HARPER, Constable, Devon Constabulary, Lynton. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— 

Edward DENSCOMBE, Quarry Foreman, Barlynch Quarry, Somerset County Council. 

James Hudson EARLE, Constable, Devon Constabulary, Lynton. 

William John GERMAN, Leading Fireman, Somerset Fire Brigade, Dulverton. 

Stanley Harold James PAVEY, Constable, 

101

For courage, leadership and devotion to duty in extremely hazardous conditions on the occasion of the floods in Devonshire and 

Somerset during August, 1952. 

QUEEN'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Supplement to the L/G 39730, 26 th December 1952, pp 6827.) 

Edgar FOSTER, Fireman, Devon County Fire Brigade. 

Henry GLOVER, Fireman, Devon County Fire Brigade. 

Herbert RICHARDS, Fireman, Devon County Fire Brigade. 

Michael Francis SHARP, Fireman, Devon County Fire Brigade. 

Leslie Lionel SQUIRES, Fireman, Devon County Fire Brigade. 

Stanley WILDE, Fireman, Devon County Fire Brigade. 

For services on the occasion of the floods in Devonshire and Somerset during August, 1952. 


QUEEN'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Third Supplement to the L/G. 39774, 10 th February 1953 pp. 832.) 

Robert Leonard DAY, Sub-Officer, Essex Fire Brigade. (Sible Hedingham, Essex.) 

For services when a man was overcome by fumes at the bottom of a well. 

QUEEN'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Third Supplement to the L/G. 39774, 10 th February 1953 pp. 833.) 

Sidney Charles WHARTON, Station Officer, Birmingham Fire and Ambulance Service, 

Leonard John FLETCHER, Fireman, Birmingham Fire and Ambulance Service.- 

For rescuing a woman buried by debris when a chimney stack crashed through the roof of a dwelling house 

Awarded the George Medal:—(Supplement to the L/G 39834, 28 th April 1953, pp 2330.) 

Frederick William SADD, Leading Fireman, Great Yarmouth Fire Brigade. (Caister-on-Sea, Norfolk.) 

Leading Fireman Sadd was in charge of a fire appliance which attended a fire call to Gorleston where a small estate consisting of 

16 prefabricated bungalows and some 30 two-storey houses was completely flooded to a depth of more than 5 feet. Sadd, seeing 

there were several people trapped in the bungalows and houses, and hearing their cries for help, instructed a fisherman to collect a 

boat and report back to him with it. Meanwhile, as something approaching panic was reigning in most of the flooded buildings. 

Leading Fireman Sadd, accompanied by two members of his crew, started to wade to the bungalows. The water, however, soon 

proved to be too deep for his companions and Sadd, realising that they were unlikely to survive, ordered them back and continued 

alone. The level of the water was still rising, a very severe gale was blowing, it was pitch dark and the surface of the water was 

exceedingly rough. At times Sadd was completely submerged but he alternately waded and swam his way from house to house, 

reassuring the occupants and promising them that he would return with a boat to rescue them. 

He then made his way back to the high ground where the fisherman had returned with a boat. No oars were available but Sadd 

refused to abandon the attempt and by wading, and at times swimming, either pulling or pushing the boat in the direction it was 

desired to take, visited each of the bungalows, rescuing the persons found in them. In almost every case it was impossible to take 

the boat close up to the bungalows, and Sadd had therefore to carry each person in turn from bungalow to boat. 

The water was exceedingly cold and the conditions atrocious, but although suffering severely, Sadd persisted in his efforts. After 

rescuing 5 adults and 5 children in this manner, Sadd collapsed, was given first aid treatment and sent back to his Station. A short 

while after, he responded to another call where, under similar conditions, he personally rescued a further 6 adults and 9 children 

from the houses on the estate. Throughout the entire proceedings, Leading Fireman Sadd showed courage of the highest order, 

with little or no regard for his own personal safety. 


John Edward BARLOW, Leading Fireman, Ipswich Fire Brigade. (Beccles, Suffolk.) 

Leading Fireman Barlow answered a call for assistance in dealing with flooded premises in South Lowestoft. The situation was 

serious owing to the depth of the water and his first efforts were directed towards allying the fears of the residents. Whilst passing 

from house to house Barlow saw the floating body of a man. With no thought for his personal safety, Barlow immediately waded 

further into the swirling water until he was immersed to his neck. He reached the body but had great difficulty in maintaining his 

foothold whilst supporting the unconscious man owing to the turbulence of the water and to his heavy fire service clothes and knee 

boots which hampered his movements and made swimming impossible. He managed, however, to cling to a nearby lamp-post and 

eventually, with the assistance of residents, the man was taken into a house where Fireman Barlow applied artificial respiration. 

After some time breathing recommenced and the man regained consciousness. Although soaked to the skin and suffering from the 

bitter cold Barlow insisted upon continuing with rescue work for a further four hours. 


Sidney William LANCASTER. Sub-Officer, Stalham Fire Brigade.— 

The Stalham Fire Brigade with Sub-Officer Lancaster in charge was called to Sea Palling where the water was running at a terrific 

pace and far too deep for the use of the pumping appliance. A large number of persons had been cut off when the sea broke 

through the sand dunes and were signaling for assistance. Lancaster obtained a boat and immediately commenced rescue work. 

Throughout the night, at times almost completely immersed in the water, he worked on, until he was finally overcome by 

exhaustion and extreme cold. The conditions were deplorable with the tide running strongly, high winds and the whole area 

littered with all types of floating debris. 

102

Sub-Officer Lancaster's leadership and initiative were responsible in the main for the initiation of rescue efforts and his courage 

and resourcefulness were outstanding. 

QUEEN'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Supplement to the L/G 39834, 28 th April 1953, pp. 2333.) 

William Henry RUSSELL, Fireman, Lincolnshire Fire Brigade. (Mablethorpe, Lincolnshire.) 

For rescuing people trapped by the floods at Mablethorpe, Lincolnshire.) 

Frederick Arthur Frank CHAMBERS, Station Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. (Gravesend.) 

For services when a fire broke out in a flooded Firework Factory at Dartford, Kent. 

John Frederick FLEMING, Station Officer, Hunstaniton Fire Brigade. 

For rescuing people trapped by the floods at Hunstanton, Norfolk. 

Charles William HORTON, Sub-Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. (Herne Bay.) 

For services when fighting fires in flooded buildings at Herne Bay, Kent. 

Jack Edward ROACH, Fireman, Suffolk and Ipswich Fire Brigade. (Lowestoft.) 

For rescuing a man from drowning at Lowestoft 

Arthur Stanley TILLOT, Sub-Officer, Lincolnshire Fire Brigade. (Skegness.) 

For rescuing people trapped by floods at Ingoldmells Point, Lincolnshire. 

Joseph William WITHERDEN, Sub-Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. (Cliffe, Kent) 

For rescuing people trapped by the floods at Cliffe, Kent. 

To be Additional Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:—(Supplement to the L/G. 39863, 1 st June 1953, 

pp 2958,) 

Cyril James GOAD, Esq. Chief Officer, Gloucestershire Fire Brigade. 

Daniel Durnford IVALL, Esq., Assistant Chief Officer, Middlesex Fire Brigade. 

William SMITH, Esq. B.E.M., Chief Officer, Stoke-on-Trent Fire Brigade. 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order :— 

Kenneth Barrett COLAM, Esq. Chief Officer, Wakefield Fire Brigade. 

William Roy HOWELLS, Esq. Chief Officer, Herefordshire Fire Brigade. 

Leonard Edmund Reuben LOADER, Esq. Chief Officer, Anglesey Fire Brigade. 

Edward Arthur MOXEY, Esq. Chief Officer, Great Yarmouth Fire Brigade. 

Joseph REA, Esq. Divisional Officer, Wiltshire Fire Service 

Ivor Robertson ROY, Esq. Column Officer, South Eastern Area Fire Brigade, Scotland. 

Abe SIMPSON, Esq. Divisional Officer, Fife Area Fire Brigade. 

Charles Thomas WEBSTER, Esq. Senior Experimental Officer, Joint Fire Research Organisation, Department of Scientific and 

Industrial Research 

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of Her Majesty's Coronation, to approve the award of the British 

Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned : — (Supplement to the L/G. 39863, 1 st June 1953, pp 2981.) 

Miss Jean Margaret BELDING, Firewoman, Norfolk Fire Service, King's Lynn. (Terrington St. Clement, Norfolk.) For services 

during the recent floods in the Eastern Counties 

David Clark DUNLOP, Section Leader, South-Western Area Fire Brigade, Scotland. (Irvine, Ayrshire.) 

Frank Albert GRIFFITHS, Sub-Officer, Essex Fire Brigade. (Canvey Island, Essex.) For services during the recent floods in the 

Eastern Counties. 

William Henry GRINDROD, Station Officer, (Warwickshire Fire Brigade. (Kenilworth.) 

Miss Annie MclNTOSH, Senior Leading Firewoman, North-Eastern Fire Brigade, Scotland. (Aberdeen.) 

Robert Lennie PEARSON, Assistant Divisional Officer, Norfolk Fire Brigade. (King's Lynn.) For services during the recent 

floods in the Eastern Counties. 

Joseph Frederick PRATT, Station Officer, Lincolnshire Fire Brigade. (Louth, Lincolnshire.) For services during the recent floods 

in the Eastern Counties. 

Charles Edward REDDIN, Sub-Officer, North Riding of Yorkshire Fire Brigade. (Northallerton.) 

Miss Lydia Olwen THOMAS, Group Officer, Glamorganshire Fire Brigade. (Llanelly.) 

Lawrence Gerald WICKHAM, Station Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. (Sheerness.) For services during the recent floods in the 

Eastern Counties. 


The QUEEN has been pleased to award the King's Police and Fire Services Medal, for Distinguished Service, to the 

undermentioned officers:— (Supplement to the L/G. 39863, 1 st June 1953, pp 2991.) 

Arthur John PROBERT, Assistant Chief Officer, Birmingham Fire and Ambulance Service. 

Thomas Arthur KELLY, Chief Officer, Liverpool Fire Brigade. 

Ind Edward RICHMOND, Divisional Officer, Grade II, London Fire Brigade. 

Joseph CACERES, Chief Officer, Lincolnshire (Ondsey) Fire Brigade. 

FIRE SERVICE, SCOTLAND. 

Thomas McCORKINDALE, M.B.E., Divisional Officer (Deputy Firemaster), Western Area Fire Brigade. 

103

Awarded the George Medal:— (Second Supplement to the L/G. 39917, 21 st July 1953, pp 3994.) 

John SWANSON, M.B.E. Assistant Firemaster, National Fire Service, Glasgow. 

James MELVIN, Divisional Officer, National Fire Service, Glasgow. 

William ANDERSON, Column Officer, National Fire Service, Glasgow. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— 

John BLACKWOOD, Branchman, National Fire Service, Glasgow. 

John HARROLD, Branchman, National Fire Service, Glasgow. 

Fire broke out on the top (fifth) floor of the premises of a firm of cabinet-makers at 270, Ballater Street, Glasgow. An employee 

immediately raised the alarm and the workers on that floor promptly made their way to the lower parts of the building, warning 

others as they went. 

A motor driver employed by the firm entered the lift on the ground floor and, together with the lift-man, travelled to the third 

floor, where they were joined by the Managing Director, the Works Manager and the Foreman who had seized extinguishers and a 

pail of water before entering the lift, which was then taken to the fifth floor. There the trellis gate of the lift and the heavy metal 

folding safety door covering the lift shaft were opened by one of the five men. Immediately, flames shot up in front of the lift, so 

intense that the men were unable to close the door and gate. They could not therefore operate the lift and were trapped. 

Branchmen Harrold and Blackwood arrived at the burning top floor by a stairway and found that the fire was billowing and 

roaring like an oil fire. The firemen had with them a line of hose with nozzle but were without an immediate water supply. They 

heard screaming from the direction of the lift and before water arrived at their end of the hose tried to reach the lift, but progress 

without water cover was impossible. As soon as water was available Harrold and Blackwood, now helped by another branchman, 

again tried to get through the fire to the lift. The water had little effect on the fire, however, and it was found impossible to cut a 

path through the flames. 

The three branchmen were joined by two other firemen and all five tried to reach the lift but without success. Column Officer 

Anderson arrived, followed by Assistant Firemaster Swanson and Divisional Officer Melvin. Without hesitation, these three 

officers, having forbidden the firemen to attempt to enter the flames, themselves tried to reach the lift under the cover of one jet of 

water but were driven back by the fierce fire. 

Swanson then had a second line of hose brought into use and the three officers attempted once more to reach the lift, but because 

of steam, flames and falling timbers they were forced to return to their original positions. A life-line was obtained and Melvin, 

Swanson and Anderson, on their hands and knees, again went through the flames. The five firemen played their jets of water on 

the three officers while burning timber fell all around them and they crossed a floor which was burning and breaking beneath them 

as they moved. 

The heat was intense and in places the men's feet went through the floor, which was liable to collapse at any moment. They 

succeeded this time in reaching the lift and found one body in front of it. At the back of the lift they found another body. The 

Works Manager was discovered still alive and removed on a stretcher without delay. The bodies of the other two victims were also 

recovered. 

Assistant Firemaster Swanson, Divisional Officer Melvin and Column Officer Anderson all showed utter disregard of their own 

safety in making persistent attempts to save the lives of the trapped men and were ably supported by Branchmen Harrold and 

Blackwood, who acted with considerable gallantry. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Second Supplement to the L/G. 39917, 21 st July 1953, pp, 3995) 

Andrew Charles Lewis, Senior Fireman, No. 38, Maintenance Unit, Royal Air Force Station, Llandow, Glamorganshire. 

A Spitfire aircraft of the Burmese Conversion Squadron crashed while taking off. Senior Fireman Lewis was the driver and sole 

occupant of the Crash Rescue vehicle at the time and before the aircraft came to rest he was on his way to the scene and was the 

first to arrive. The aircraft was upside down and petrol was pouring from the wreckage. 

Lewis saw that it was impossible to lift the aircraft to release the pilot. In spite of the very real danger of an imminent explosion 

he immediately dug a hole beneath the cockpit, cut away part of the fuselage and extricated the injured pilot. The initiative, 

determination and disregard of his own personal safety displayed by Mr. Lewis in 

this prompt, singlehanded rescue in difficult and dangerous circumstances, set an exceptionally fine example. 

QUEEN'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Second Supplement to the L/G. 39917, 21 st July 1953, pp 3996.) 

For attempted rescue operations during a fire in Glasgow. 

John BALMAIN, Branchman, National Fire Service, Glasgow. 

Martin McARTHUR, Fireman, National Fire Service, Glasgow. 

Alexander Hunter MORTON, Fireman, National Fire Service, Glasgow. 

For services when an explosion followed by a petrol fire, took place in H.M. Dockyard, Sheerness. 

William Henry Benefield, Sergeant, Admiralty Constabulary Fire Brigade. (Sheerness.) 

Edward Henry Madely, Constable, Admiralty Constabulary Fire Brigade. (Sheerness.) 

For rescuing passengers from a crashed and burning aircraft at Belfast. 

William John Gordon, Fireman, Ministry of Civil Aviation Fire Service. (Belfast.) 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division): — (Fourth Supplement to the L/G. 39917, 21 st July 1953, pp 5306.) 

Cecil CAREY, Station Officer, Berkshire and Reading Fire Brigade (Newbury.) 

A fuel tanker containing approximately 3,600 gallons of jet fuel became out of control whilst approaching the village of 

Lambourn, skidded violently, collided with and partially demolished three shops and overturned in the road. The jet fuel poured 

out of the tanker, ignited immediately, ran down the road, penetrated the storm water sewers and entered the River Lambourn, 

leaving in its wake a trail of fire which involved a pair of thatched cottages and eight other premises. 

104

Station Officer Carey, who was in control of fire fighting operations, was told that the driver of the tanker was still in the cab and 

that rescue operations had been impossible owing to the intense heat. Without any hesitation Carey, protected by a salvage sheet, 

instructed a man to play a spray jet on to him and advanced towards the petrol tanker in an attempt to save the driver. With much 

difficulty and in the face of intense heat from the fire, Carey recovered the driver of the tanker who, unfortunately, was found to be 

dead. Station Officer Carey acted in accordance with the highest traditions of the Fire Service. 

QUEEN'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Fourth Supplement to the L/G. 39917, 21 st July 1953, pp 5307.) 

William Samuel Theodore HARRIS, Sub-Officer, Berkshire and Reading Fire Brigade, (Lambourn.) 

For services when a fuel tanker overturned and caught fire. 

QUEEN'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Fourth Supplement to the L/G. 39979, 6 th October 1953, pp 5306.) 

William Henry BENEFIELD, Sergeant, Admiralty Constabulary Fire Brigade. (Sheerness.) 

Edward Henry MADELY, Constable, Admiralty Constabulary Fire Brigade. (Sheerness.) 

For services when an explosion followed .by a petrol fire, took place in H.M. Dockyard,(Sheerness). 

William John GORDON, Fireman, Ministry of Civil Aviation Fire Service. (Belfast.) 

For rescuing passengers from a crashed and burning aircraft at Belfast. 



To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:—(Supplement to the L/G 40053, 1 st 

January 1954, pp, 10. 

John Hampden FORDHAM, Esq., Chief Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. The C.F.O. was approaching the end of his careeer when, in 

1963, the compiler, a 22 year old recruit, first met him. His address to the course was not, it must be said, great. What remains in 

my memory is the immense respect held by the instructors, all fine, experienced Juniors Officers and most ex servicemen, for ‗Mr. 

Fordham‘ He was a great influence during the formative years of the British Fire Service and his C.V is well worth studying. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— Supplement to the L/G 40053, 1 st January 

1954, pp, 13.) 

Clifford Victor HALL, Esq., Chief Officer, Durham County Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G 40053,1 st January 

1954, pp, 17 ) 

Ronald FRENCH, Esq., Assistant Chief Officer, Leeds Fire Brigade. 

Thomas Henry GRIFFITHS, Esq., Divisional Officer, Nottinghamshire Fire Brigade. 

Thomas Aubrey HESKETH, Esq., Divisional Officer, West Sussex Fire Brigade. 


The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the 

undermentioned, — (Supplement to the L/G 40053,1 st January 1954, pp, 28). 

Thomas BROWNLIE, Section Leader, Lanarkshire Area Fire Brigade. (Biggar.) 

John Frederick FLEMING, Station Officer, Norfolk Fire Brigade. (Hunstanton.) 

George HEMSWORTH, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. (Hoxton, N.I.) 

Ian Cuthbert MacGREGOR, Aerodrome Fire Officer, Grade 1, Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation. 

The QUEEN has been pleased to award theKing's Police and Fire Services Medal, for Distinguished Service, to the 

undermentioned officers:— (Supplement to the L/G. 40053, 1 st January 1954, pp. 35.) 

Albert Walter Alexander PARAMOR, O.B.E., Chief Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

David KERNOHAN, Chief Officer, Preston FireBrigade. 

Donald Marshall TAYLOR, O.B.E., Chief Officer, Berkshire and Reading Fire Brigade. 

Henry JONES, Chief Officer, Doncaster Fire Brigade. 

Benjamin JONES, Chief Officer, Sheffield Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):—(Third Supplement to the L/G. 40108, 23 rd February 1954, pp. 1160.) 

Benjamin RICHARDS, Station Officer, Cornwall Fire Brigade. (Gamthorne.) 

Richard John RICHARDS, Ambulance Driver, Cornwaill Ambulance Service. (Redruth.) 

The Police and Fire Brigade were called to a disused mineshaft in Camborne into which a six year old boy had fallen. On arrival 

of the Fire Brigade, Station Officer Benjamin Richards volunteered to be lowered down the shaft to the boy who was discovered 

100 feet below the surface on an accumulation of bedirons and other debris wedged across the shaft. The water in the shaft had 

risen to within 200 feet of the surface. The shaft was stony and funnel shaped, and there was a risk of fraying the ropes used to 

lower rescuers. 

When he reached the boy, Station Officer Richards found him to be injured and asked for a stretcher to be lowered. Ambulance 

Driver Richard Richards went down with one and gave the boy first aid treatment. In order to facilitate rescue operations the 

Ambulance Driver then removed his own rope so that the stretcher could be hauled to the surface more easily and he remained in 

the shaft with the knowledge that the debris on which he stood might at any time ollapse into the water below. 

105

Station Officer Richards came up with and guided the stretcher as it was hauled to the surface. He was then again lowered part of 

the way down the shaft to help Ambulance Driver Richards in his ascent. Throughout the descent and ascent both men were 

exposed to falls of stone and other debris. 

QUEEN'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Third Supplement to the L/G. 40108, 23 rd February 1954, pp. 

1161.) 

Ernest James Arthur COLLINS. Fireman, Ministry of Supply Fire Brigade, Royal Aircraft Establishment, Farmborough. 

{Camberley, Surrey.) 

Hugh MCCLELLAND, Chargehand, Ministry of Supply, Royal Aircraft Establishment, Farnborough. 

James Charles SMITH, Leading Fireman, Ministry of Supply Fire Brigade, Royal Aircraft Establishment, 

For rescuing two men from a helicopter which had crashed. 


The QUEEN has been pleased to award the Queen's Fire Service Medal, for Distinguished Service, to the undermentioned 

officers: —(Supplement to the L/G. 40188, 10 th June 1954, pp 3293) 


Joseph WHITESIDE, M.B.E., Assistant Chief Officer, Manchester Fire Brigade. 

Eric SEARSTON, Chief Officer, East Riding of Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

Joseph HOLT, Chief Officer, Wallasey Fire Brigade. 

Harry Sidney Charles TANNER, Chief Officer, Warwickshire Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND. 

Robert BOWMAN, O.B.E., Firemaster, Western Area Fire Brigade. 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G. 40188,10 th June 

1954, pp 3267. 

William Henry James BENTON, Esq., O.B.E., Chief Officer, Essex Fire Brigade. 

Lieutenant-Colonel Daniel Jackson CHRISTIE. For services as Chairman, Northern Ireland Fire Authority. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G. 40188, 10 th June 

1954, pp 3270.) 

Clifford Ivor KING, Esq., Chief Officer, Denbighshire and Montgomeryshire Fire Service. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:—( Supplement to the L/G. 40188, 10 th June 

1954, pp. 3270). 

Edward George HAYLETT, Esq., Chief Officer, Lincoln Fire Brigade. 

James MELVIN, Esq. G.M., Divisional Officer, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

John SMITH, Esq. Divisional Officer, Grade II, Liverpool Fire Brigade. 

Cyril Gordon TOBIAS, Esq., B.E.M., Assistant Chief Officer, Essex Fire Brigade. 

B.E.M. 

I0th June, 1954. 

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased on the occasion of the Celebration of Her Majesty's Birthday, to approve the award 

of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned: — (Supplement to the L/G. 40188, 10 th June 1954, 

pp.3286.) 

Leslie Thomas BASSETT, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. (Stockwell, S.W 9.) 

Annie Margaret, Mrs. DAVIES, Senior Leading Firewoman, Carmarthenshire and Cardiganshire Fire Service. (Carmarthen.) 

Ernest Wiliam HILL, Sub-Officer, Somerset Fire Brigade. (Cheddar.) 

George MACLEAY, Leading Fireman, Northern Area Fire Brigade, Bonar Bridge, Sutherland. 


The QUEEN has been pleased to award the Queen's Fire Service Medal, for Distinguished Service, to the undermentioned 

officers: — (Supplement to the L/G. 40188, 10 th June 1954, pp3293.) 


Joseph WHITESIDE, M.B.E. Assistant Chief Officer, Manchester Fire Brigade. 

Eric SEARSTON, Chief Officer, East Riding of Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

Joseph HOLT, Chief Officer, Wallasey Fire Brigade. 

Harry Sidney Charles TANNER, Chief Officer, Warwickshire Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND. 

Robert BOWMAN, O.B.E. Firemaster, Western Area Fire Brigade. 

COLONIES. 

William James GORMAN, B.E.M. Chief Officer, Fire Brigade, Hong Kong. 

106

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Third Supplement to the L/G. 40211, 22 nd . June 1954, pp. 3686.) 

Bert BULLETT, Fireman, Surrey Fire Brigade (Dorking, Surrey). 

A fifteen year old boy was trapped by a fall of chalk in a cave at West Humber near Dorking. The caves are unstable and 

dangerous and when the Fire Brigade attempted ito tunnel horizontally towards the boy this produced further falls and had to be 

abandoned. A vertical excavation was then undertaken by hand to a depth of six feet which exposed the boy's head and shoulders. 

In order to release the boy it was then necessary to tunnel parallel with his legs and body. 

These operations could only be carried out by hand and not more than one man could operate at a time. As the excavation 

deepened firemen had to be suspended head downwards by a line. Fireman Bullett took part in the sinking of the vertical shaft and 

undertook the freeing of the boy's legs and body. The operation took 2 hours and during this time Bullett was working in a 

confined space in which it was impracticable to take any effective steps, by shoring or other means, to safeguard the working 

conditions. 

Fireman Bullett acted with complete disregard of his personal safety and during the operation encouraged the boy and obtained 

from him the cooperation which assisted his final release. 

QUEEN'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Third Supplement to the L/G. 40211, 22 nd June 1954, pp. 3687.) 

John Frederick CASSIDY, Fireman, Middlesex Fire Brigade. (Southall.) 

For rescuing a baby from a burning house. 

Aubrey Whiting John FRUIN, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. (East Dulwich, S.E.22.) 

For services when a fire broke out in a five storey building. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal ;(Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G. 40287, 24 th September 1954, pp 5508.) 

Frederick George LANE, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. (Twickenham.) 

Station Officer Lane was in charge of a pump-escape and pump which attended a fire in a three-storied terrace house in 

Paddington. Flames and smoke were coming from the house and he was informed that a baby was inside. Lane entered the 

building and heard screaming coming from above. He ran up the stairs through the heat and smoke and discovered an elderly man 

on the half-landing between the first and second floors. The smoke was so dense that it was impossible to see, but, by groping 

around, Lane was able to grasp the man who had partially collapsed. The man struggled violently and Lane had to remove him 

forcibly from the house. 

Station Officer Lane then made two separate attempts to enter the front room where the baby was believed to be but was unable to 

effect an entry. Under cover of a hose reel jet he made further attempt without success. He then had a ladder pitched to the first 

floor window and managed to enter the room, followed by a fireman. The room was hot and very smoky and at the first attempt 

Station Officer Lane did not find the child and had to withdraw to the window for fresh air. He then renewed the search and found 

the baby unconscious in its cot. 

He took it to the window and handed it over to a fireman. Both the rescued persons recovered, but there is little doubt that but for 

the promptitude with which Station Officer Lane acted, working under conditions of great heat and smoke, both these lives wouild 

have been lost. 

QUEEN'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Supplement to the L/G. 40287, 24 th September 1954, pp. 5509) 

Arthur FOX, Leading Fireman, West Riding of Yorkshire Fire Brigade. (Bradford.) 

For services when a fire broke out in a dwelling house. 

James LAMBERT, Leading Fireman, City of Sheffield Fire Brigade. 

Colin RYALLS, Fireman, City of Sheffield Fire Brigade. 

Robert SMITH, Fireman, City of Sheffield Fire Brigade. 

For rescuing a boy gassed in a disused mine. 


Whitehall, January I, 1955. 


undermentioned: — (Supplement to the L/G. 40366, 1 st January 1955, pp. 30.) 

Harry Charles BROXUP, Assistant Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. (Lambeth, S.E.1.) 

Alick Hayden FINNEY, Esq. Chief Officer, Staffordshire Fire Brigade. 

Nichol Elliott HASTIE, Company Officer, Angus Fire Brigade. (Dundee.) 

Duncan Mackintosh MACDONALD, Esq., Firemaster Northern Area Fire Brigade, Scotland. 

Fanny Louisa, Mrs. MILLER, Group Officer, Middlesex Auxiliary Fire Service. (Hayes End.) 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G. 40366, 1 st January 

1955, pp. 37) 

Allister Robert George WRAY, Esq. Chief Officer, Birkenhead Fire Brigade. 


The QUEEN has been pleased to award the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned 

officers:— (Supplement to the L/G. 40366, 1 st January 1955, pp. 3) 


Sidney Frank CHANDLER, B.E.M. Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

107

Thomas Edward SMITH, Chief Officer, Halifax Fire Brigade. 

Thomas George HASEMAN, Chief Officer, Westmorland Fire Brigade. 

Gerald Victor John AVERY, Chief Officer, Chester Fire Brigade. 

Sidney Herbert TODD, Divisional Officer, Birmingham Fire Brigade. 

QUEEN'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Third Supplement to the L/G. 40480, 17 th May 1955, pp. 2876.) 

James SMITH, Leading Fireman, Prestwick Airport Fire Service, Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation. (Kilmarnock.) 

Thomas McKendrick GIBSON, Fireman, Prestwick Airport Fire Service, Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation. (Kilmarnock.) 

For services when an aircraft crashed and was destroyed by fire. 

QUEEN'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Third Supplement to the L/G. 40480, 17 th May 1955, pp. 2876.) 

George Henry WOODS, Sub-Officer, Caernarvonshire Fire Brigade. (Conway.) 

Robert WILLIAMS, Fireman, Caernarvonshire Fire Brigade. (Conway.) 

For rescuing a man from a burning house. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G. 40497, 9 th June 1955, 

pp. 3294.) 

Clement Murray KERR, Esq., Commandant, Fire Service College, Dorking. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G. 40497, 9 th June 

1955, pp. 3273.) 

Ivor Louis Hugh BOLT, Esq. Divisional Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

John CRAIG, Esq. Divisional Officer (Grade III), Western No. 2 Area Fire Service, Scotland. 

Robert James STEPNEY, Esq. Assistant Chief Officer, Berkshire and Reading Fire Brigade. (Recently appointed Chief Officer 

of the Cambridgeshire Fire Brigade.) 

B.E.M. 


of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned: — (Supplement to the L/G. 40497, 9 th June 1955, pp. 3288.) 

John McGregor HISLOP, Sub-Officer, Central Fire Brigade, Stirling. 

Robert Fearne HUGHES, Station Officer, Anglesey Fire Brigade 

Alfred Robert George VARNDELL, Assistant Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. (Clerkenwell, E.C.I.) 



officers: (Supplement to the L/G. 40497, 9 th June 1955, pp. 3294.) 


Francis MEES, B.E.M. Chief Officer, East Sussex Fire Brigade. 

George Hamilton CRAMP, M.M. Divisional Officer, Middlesex Fire Brigade. 

Reginald John SMITH, M.B.E. Assistant Chief Officer, Suffolk and Ipswich Fire Brigade. 

Ernest George HARMER, G.M. Chief Officer, Blackpool Fire Brigade. 

Jesse William HASTED, Chief Officer, Lincolnshire (Holland) Fire Brigade.— 

QUEEN'S COMMENDATIONS FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. (Third Supplement to the L/G. 40546, 26 th July 1955, pp.4306.) 

Samuel ELSDON, Fireman, Worcester City and County Fire Brigade. (Smethwick.) 

For attempting to rescue the driver of a van driven into a water filled, disused gasholder. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G. 40592, 27 th September 1955, pp 5417). 

William Leonard Edward TUNSTALL, Sub-Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. 

William John WAY. Leading Fireman. Kent Fire Brigade. 

Thomas Albert GRAVES, Fireman. Kent Fire Brigade. 

The Kent Fire Brigade were called to the Belvedere Power Station where four men had been overcome by carbon monoxide fumes 

at the bottom of a manhole about 8 feet square and 60 feet deep. 

On arrival Sub-Officer Tunstall found that three of the men wereon a staging 10 feet from the bottom of the manhole whilst the 

fourth man who was believed to be seriously injured, was lying at the bottom. Tunstall put on breathing apparatus and descended 

a ladder into the manhole followed by Leading Fireman Way and Fireman Graves similarly equipped. 

Way and Graves were instructed to go to the bottom of the shaft and secure the man there to a stretcher, while Tunstall secured the 

three men on the staging to lines and sent them to the top. Meanwhile the fourth man was secured to the stretcher by Way and 

Graves and then all three firemen guided the stretcher through the staging and from there it was hauled to the surface. All the four 

men recovered in hospital. 

108

On arrival at the surface, Sub-Officer Tunstall and the two firemen were in a state of extreme exhaustion and the oxygen in their 

breathing sets was almost expended. Their lives were in jeopardy throughout in the highly toxic concentration of carbon 

monoxide in which they were working, and but for the speed with which the rescue was carried out, there is little doubt that the 

four men would have died. 




officers: —(Supplement to the L/G. 40669, 2 nd January 1956, pp.36.) 


Willoughby Mervyn Hammett DRAKE, M.B.E. Chief Officer, Shropshire Fire Brigade. 

John HEAP, Chief Officer, Bury Fire Brigade. 

Arnold George FIELD, Divisional Officer, Birmingham Fire Brigade. 

Henry Alfred STANISLAS, Divisional Officer (Deputy Chief Officer), Brighton Fire Brigade. . 

SCOTLAND. 

Alexander Hodge NISBET, G.M. O.B.E. Firemaster, Lanarkshire Area Fire Brigade 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order :—(Supplement to the L/G. 40669, 2 nd 

January 1956, pp10.) 

Geoffrey Vaughan BLACKSTONE, Esq. O.B.E., G.M., Chief Officer, Hertfordshire Fire Brigade. 

Samuel Harrison CLARKE, Esq. Director, Fire Research Station, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G. 40669, 2 nd January 

1956, pp12.) 

Alfred James LEYLAND, Esq., Chief Officer, Middlesbrough Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G. 40765, 1 st May 1956, pp. 2538.) 

Leonard Hugh OLDFIELD, Station Officer, Sheffield Fire Brigade. (Sheffield.) 

A water tender and pump escape with Station Officer Oldfield in charge were sent to a fire at a private dwelling house. On arrival 

Oldfield was informed that a man was trapped in a rear first floor bedroom and that three attempts had been made to enter the 

room. Dense and suffocating fumes were escaping from the bedroom and the door was on fire, but Oldfield, regardless of his own 

safety, entered the burning, smokefilled room and found the man lying unconscious near the window. He carried him out to the 

landing and passed him to two other fireman who rendered first aid and artificial respiration. Station Officer Oldfield, who 

sustained burns to his hands which required medical attention, acted in the best tradition of the Fire Service in effecting the rescue 

of the man, who unfortunately died two days later. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):— (Supplement to the L/G. 40765, 1 st May 1956, pp. 2539.) 

George Herbert PEACOCK, Leading Fireman, Lincoln Fire Brigade. (Lincoln.) 

A fire broke out in a dwelling house and when the fire brigade arrived the ground floor was found to be well alight and fire 

spreading to the upper rooms via the staircase. Two children were trapped upstairs and attempts to rescue them had so far been 

unsuccessful. 

Leading Fireman Peacock immediately put on a breathing apparatus set and using a ladder he climbed to a back bedroom window, 

chopped away the window frame, which measured only 1 ft. 3 ins. by 2 ft. 10 ins. and entered the bedroom. The heat was intense 

and the room was full of dense smoke. He had great difficulty in finding the children, but came across the eldest child and handed 

her out of the window to a fireman. He returned to find the younger child in a cot. He passed her out of the window and then left 

himself. Throughout the rescue the fire on the ground floor was blazing fiercely. 

Whitehall, May 31, 1956. 


officers: — (Supplement to the L/G/ 40787, 31 st May 1956, pp.3137.) 


Leonard Philip WRIGHT, Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

William COLLOW, M.B.E. Chief Officer, Norfolk Fire Brigade. . 

Leslie GARSIDE, Chief Officer, York Fire Brigade. 

Percy Albert BLOOM, Assistant Chief Officer, Nottinghamshire Fire Brigade. 

Arthur HALLSWORTH, Divisional Officer, Derby County Borough Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Orders. (Supplement to the L/G. 40787, 31 st May 1956, 

pp.3112.) 

Frank William HITCHINSON, Esq. Chief Officer, . Caernarvonshire Fire Brigade. 

William STANTON, Esq. Deputy Chief Officer, Northamptonshire Fire Brigade 

109

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G/ 40787, 31 st May 

1956, pp.3115/6/9.) 

Harold Charles COWIE, Esq., Deputy Chief Officer, Berkshire and Reading Fire Brigade. 

Alexander James FRAME, Esq., Assistant Chief Officer, Hertfordshire Fire Brigade. 

William STANTON, Esq., Deputy Chief Officer, Northamptonshire Fire Brigade 

3lst May, 1956. 


of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned:— (Supplement to the L/G/ 40787, 31 st May 1956, 

pp.3130/1/2.) 

Victor George BLEWDON, Assistant Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

William HIGMAN, Station Officer, Cornwall Fire Brigade. (St. Columb.) 

James MACKENZIE., Sub-Officer, Perth and Kinross Fire Brigade. (Blairgowrie, Perthshire.). 

Whitehall, May 31, 1956. 

The QUEEN has been pleased to award theQueen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned 

officers: (Supplement to the L/G/ 40787, 31 st May 1956, pp.3137.) 


Leonard Philip WRIGHT, Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

William COLLOW, M.B.E., .Chief Officer, Norfolk Fire Brigade. . 

Leslie GARSIDE, Chief Officer, York Fire Brigade. 

Percy Albert BLOOM, Assistant Chief Officer, Nottinghamshire Fire Brigade. 

Arthur HALLSWORTH, Divisional Officer, Derby County Borough Fire Brigad 

Queen's Commendations for Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G. 40841, 31 st July 1956. pp. 4404.) 

Roger DOYLE, Sub-Officer, Bootle Fire Brigade. (Liverpool.) 

For rescuing two women from a burning building. 

Robert Somers FERRY, Fireman, Middlesbrough Fire Brigade. (Hartlepool.) 

For rescuing a man from drowning 




officers: — (Supplement to the L/G. 40960, 1 st January 1957, pp. 38.) 


Alfred John BRIDLE, O.B.E., Chief Officer, West Sussex Fire Brigade. 

James CHALMERS, Chief Officer, St. Helens Fire Brigade. 

William Tinmouth TAYLOR, Chief Officer, South Shields Fire Brigade. 

Thomas William JOHNSON, Divisional Officer, Buckinghamshire Fire Brigade. 

George DRURY, O.B.E. Chief Officer, Plymouth Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G. 40960, 1 st 

January 1957, pp11.) 

Martin CHADWICK, Esq. O.B.E. Firemaster, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G. 40960, 1 st January 

1957, pp 14.) 

Joseph Young KIRKUP, Esq., M.B.E., Chief Officer. Bristol Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:— (Supplement to the L/G. 40960, 1 st January 

1957, pp.14.) 

Wilfred ANDREWS, Esq. Chief Officer, Tynemouth Fire Brigade. 

Frederick William BROWN, Esq. Chief Officer,Burnley Fire Brigade. 

John Henry William BROWN, Esq. Chief Officer, Wigan Fire Brigade. 

Walter Maurice BUNDAY, Esq. Chief Officer, Soke of Peterborough Fire Brigade. 


undermentioned:— (Supplement to the L/G. 40960, 1 st January 1957, pp. 32.) 

James Petrie MCINTYRE, Station Officer, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

Harry MAY, Sub-Officer, Berkshire and Reading Fire Brigade. (Ascot.) 

Frederick William SPATCHETT, Assistant Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):—(Third Supplement to the L/G. 40999, 12 th February 1957, pp. 976.) 

Charles RICHARDSON, Sub-Officer, Lincs, (Lindsey) Fire Brigade. (Brigg.) 

110

A fire broke out in a private house in Brigg. On arrival Sub-Officer Richardson was informed that a child was still in the house 

and presumed to be in the back bedroom. Richardson first attempted to enter the bedroom through the window by climbing on to 

the roof of a lean-to shed but was driven back by the intense smoke. He then entered the house by the front door and despite the 

smoke and heat, crawled upstairs. He searched the back bedroom but because of the smoke was unaible to find the child. He then 

searched the front bedroom, again wihout success. Finally Sub- Officer Richardson returned to the back bedroom and crawling on 

the floor to avoid heat and smoke found the child under a bed. He carried the child from the bedroom and out of the house. 

Queen's Commendations for Brave Conduct:— (Third Supplement to the L/G. 40999, 12 th February 1957, pp. 977.) 

David Thomas HOPKIN, Sub-Officer, Glamorgan Fire Service. 

Basil KENURE, Blast Furnace Foreman, Port Talbot. 

John Wynne MORGAN, M.B. B.Ch. Medical Practitioner, Port Talbot. 

For services when two men were trapped in an iron ore bunker. 

John MAGUIRE, Leading Fireman, Lines, (Lindsey) Fire Brigade (Brigg.) 

For helping to rescue a child from a burning house. 

Queen's Commendations for Brave Conduct:—(Supplement to the L/G, 41062, 7 th. May 1957, pp. 2725.) 

William George BASTIN, Station Officer, Dorset Fire Brigade. (Charmouth.) 

Laurence HAYES, Constable, Dorset Constabulary. (Bridport.) 

For services when two men were overcome at the bottom of a well. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:—(Supplement to the L/G. 41089, 13 th June 1957, 

pp. 3379. 

Gilbert John Tudway CAINS, Esq., Chief Officer, Nottingham Fire Brigade. 

Harry Roy MACKAY, Esq., Firemaster, South Western Area Fire Brigade, Scotland. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: —(Supplement to the L/G. 41089, 13 th June 

1957, pp. 3383.) 

Ernest Harcourt COLEMAN, Esq., Senior Experimental Officer, Fire Research Station, Department of Scientific and Industrial 

Research. 

Neville Chilton MOUNTFORD, Esq., Assistant Chief Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

Harold RYDER, Esq., Chief Officer, Stockport Fire Brigade. 

Arthur ROBINSON, Esq., Divisional Officer, North Riding of Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

Archibald Howitt WARREN, Esq., Assistant Chief Officer, Cheshire Fire Brigade. 

13th June. 1957. 


of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned: —(Supplement to the L.G 41089,13 th June 1957, pp. 3399.) 

John Twentyman HARRISON, Station Officer, West Riding of Yorkshire Fire Brigade. (Mirfield.) 

George Charles PACKER, Assistant Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. (London, S.E.1.) 

John Brown ROBERTSON, Sub Officer, South Eastern Area Fire Brigade, Scotland. (Dunbar.) 

Arthur Percy WEAVER, Station Officer, Isle of Wight Fire Brigade. 



officers: — (Supplement to the L.G 41089, 13 th June 1957, pp. 3404.) 


Thomas Stott HARRISON, Chief Officer, Southend-on-Sea Fire. Brigade. 

Robert TODD, .Chief Officer, Carlisle Fire Brigade. 

David John ENVIES, Chief Officer, Merthyr Tydfil Fire Brigade. 

Albert LLOYD, Divisional Officer, Lancashire Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND. 

William ROBERTSON, M.B.E. Divisional Officer, South Eastern Area Fire Brigade. 


To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order:—(Supplement to the L/G. 41268, 1 st January 

1958, pp. 16.) 

Henry Clifford CORLESS, Esq. Chief Officer, Gloucester Fire Brigade. 

William GAYTON, Esq. Chief Officer, Cardiff Fire Brigade. 

Frederick Reuben HALL, Esq., Chief Officer, Barnsley Fire Brigade. 

Raymond SMITH, Esq. Divisional Officer, Surrey Fire Brigade. 



undermentioned: — (Supplement to the L/G. 41268, 1 st January 1958, pp. 29.) 

111

William James CHINCHEN, Station Officer, Dorset Fire Brigade. (Swanage.) 

Thomas THOMSON, Station Officer, Fife Fire Brigade. (Methil.) 

William WHITE, Sub Officer, Lincolnshire, Holland, Fire Brigade. (Crowland.) 

Whitehall, January 1, 1958 

The QUEEN has been pleased to approve the award of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the 

undermentioned : — (Supplement to the L/G. 41268, 1 st January 1958, pp. 35.) 


Frank MOTT, Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Leslie George BRIDGMAN, Assistant Chief Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. 

Joseph CLITHEROW, C.B.E., lately Chief Officer, Lancashire Fire Brigade. 

George John COTTON. Divisional Officer, Hertfordshire Fire Brigade. 

Sidney George Arthur RACKLIFF, Divisional Officer, Middlesex Fire Brigade. 

Whitehall, 8 th . July, 1958. 

The QUEEN has been pleased by Warrant under Her Majesty's Royal Sign Manual bearing date the 30th ultimo, to appoint 

William Edlward Norwood, Esq. MBE. to be an Inspector of Fire Services 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division):— (Third Supplement to the L/G 41445, 15 th July 1958, pp. 

4430.) 

Ernest Henry MONK, Sub-Officer, Middlesex Fire Brigade. (London N.W.10.) 

Kenneth Frederick JOUSIFFE, Fireman, Middlesex Fire Brigade. (Ruislip.) 

A fire broke out at a furniture showrooms and store in Wembley and on arrival of the fire brigade it was found (that -the whole 

building was filled with thick smoke but no flames were visible. To find the source of the fire, firemen entered in pairs, wearing 

breathing apparatus. Suddenly there was a violent explosion and the rear of the building burst into flames trapping two firemen on 

the first floor. They were forced to drop over a balustrade to the ground floor in an effort to escape but both men were badly 

burned, one was rendered unconscious and the other injured his spine. 

Fireman Jousiffe, who had left the building after the explosion, re-entered when it was discovered that two firemen were missing. 

Using a hose line for part of the way, he penetrated towards the rear of the shop, avoiding furniture and other stock. It was 

difficult to see more than a few inches but with great courage and determination he followed the sounds made by the pip horns on 

the injured men's breathing apparatus sets. Fireman Jousiffe knew that he had only 15 minutes oxygen supply but nevertheless 

with a complete disregard for his own safety he searched for the missing men and eventually found one of them. Conditions were 

very bad and debris was falling from the fire above but Jousiffe managed to drag the injured man out of the shop. Sub-Officer 

Monk entered the shop at about the same time as Fireman Jousiffe and found the unconscious body of the other fireman. 

While dragging him away from the intense heat he heard the distress signal of a breathing set. Disregarding the risk to himself, he 

removed the mouthpiece of his own set and shouted to the man sounding the danger signal. This enabled the man to find Sub- 

Officer Monk who led him to a line of hose by the guidance of which the man found his own way out of the shop. Sub-Officer 

Monk then dragged the unconscious fireman to safety. 

Sub-Officer Monk and Fireman Jousiffe by their actions undoubtedly saved the lives of the two firemen. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division); (Third Supplement of the L/G. 41528, 21 st October 1958, pp. 

6426.) 

Albert Edwin JONES, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. (Enfield.) 

A fire broke out in a three storied terraced house at Stamford Hill. When the fire brigade arrived the ground floor was ablaze and 

four people were trapped on the first floor. Owing to the sloping nature of the ground the wheeled escape on the first appliance to 

arrive could not be used and a ladder was brought to the window of the room in which the people were trapped. One man escaped 

down the ladder which began to sink into the ground and a woman who started to climb down it fell into the basement area. 

Another fire appliance then arrived and a 30 foot extension ladder was used to reach the first floor window. 

Fireman Jones then ascended the ladder. Smoke and flames pouring from the broken ground floor window caused his lips to swell 

and crack and although a water screen was ordered to cover his ascent, it did not come into operation in time. As Jones reached 

the open window he saw a woman about to faint. He caught her and despite the intense heat from below, carried her down the 

ladder, through the flames from the ground floor window, to safety. 

Without hesitation in appalling conditions and despite extensive burns, Jones successfully carried out his rescue. There is little 

doubt that his courage and devotion to duty were directly instrumental in saving the life of the woman. 

Queen's Commendations for Brave Conduct. (Third Supplement of the L/G. 41528, 21 st October 1958, pp. 6428.) 

Raymond LARWOOD, Sub-Officer, Nottingham Fire Brigade. (Hucknall.) 

For rescuing a girl from a disused well shaft. 


Queen's Commendations for Brave Conduct: (Third Supplement to the L/G. 41688, 21 st April 1959, pp. 2619.) 

Maurice Frederick HOLLIS, Station Officer, Northamptonshire Fire Brigade (Rushden.) 

For rescuing a man from a burning factory. 

112

John OXSPRING, Fireman, Leicestershire and Rutland Fire Brigade. (Loughborough.) 

For rescuing a woman from drowning. 

C.B.E. 

Most Excellent Order of the British Empire Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division. (Supplement to the L/G. 41727, 13 th 

June 1959, pp. 3710.) 

Gerald EASTHAM, Esq. Chief Officer, Worcester City and County Fire Brigade. 

Alderman Eric Franklin WINSER, M.C. D.L. Chairman, Fire Brigade Committee, County Councils Association. 

Alexander MASSON, Esq. M.B.E. Firemaster, Perth and Kinross Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 41727, 13 th June 

1959, pp. 3714.) 

Walter McKEOWN, Esq. Assistant Divisional Officer, Northern Ireland Fire Authority. 

Ronald MOON, Esq. Divisional Officer, Glamorgan Fire Brigade. 

Cecil James MURDEN, Esq. Chief Officer, Lincolnshire (Kesteven) Fire Brigade. 

Edward Mortimer PEARSON, Esq. Chief Officer, Dewsbury Fire Brigade. 

John William Herbert STRANGE, Esq., Chief Officer, Flintshire Fire Brigade. 

Q.F.S.M. 


undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 41727, 13 th June 1959, pp. 3732.) 


Harry JUDGE, Chief Officer, West Riding of Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

Fred Henry James DANNIELLS, Divisional Officer (Deputy Chief Officer), Plymouth Fire Brigade. 

Leslie ALLINSON, Chief Officer, Sunderland Fire Brigade. 

Thomas Harcourt NUNNS, Divisional Officer (Deputy Chief Officer), Newport (Mon.) Fire Brigade. 

Henry Radford LUCAS, Superintendent, Ministry of. Transport and Civil Aviation Fire Service Training School, Cardiff. 

SCOTLAND 

John CRAIG, M.B.E. Divisional Officer, Western Area Fire Brigade. 

B.E.M. 

British Empire Medal (Civil Division). (Fourth Supplement to the L/G. 41727, 5 th June 1959, pp. 3726. ) 

Raymond Alexander BIRKS, Station Officer, Buckinghamshire Fire Brigade. (Gerrards Cross.) 

William HASTON, Sub-Officer, Lanarkshire Area Fire Brigade. (Shotts.) 

Dudley Raeburn MARSDEN, Assistant Divisional Officer, Birmingham Fire Brigade. 

James MORRISON, Station Officer, Northern Area Fire Brigade, Isle of Lewis. (Stornoway.) 

Robert Kime SHAW PORTER, Station Officer, Andover Fire Brigade, Hampshire. 


Q.F.S.M. 


undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G 41009, 1 st January 1960. pp. 34.) 


Arnold Thomas OWRID, Divisional Officer, Manchester Fire Brigade. 

John HOWE, Chief Officer, Salford Fire Brigade. 

Albert PICKERING, Chief Officer, Oldham Fire Brigade. 

Bernard Anthony CHRISTMAS, Chief Officer, Cornwall Fire Brigade. 

Thomas John BROWNE, Divisional Officer, Northern Ireland. 

O.B.E. 

Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division. (Supplement to the L/G 41009, 1 st January 

1960. pp. 34.) 

William Henry WOODS, Esq., M.B.E., Firemaster, North-Eastern Area of Scotland Fire Brigade. 

Frederick Charles. REVELLE, Esq., G.M., Assistant Chief Officer, Bristol Fire Brigade. 

B.E.M. 


ndermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G 41009, 1 st January 1960. pp 29.) 

George Geoffrey BICKERS, Brigade Welfare Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Thomas FERGUSON, Leading Fireman, Central Area Fire Brigade, Cove, Dunbartonshire. 

Edward Alfred Rutkin HIBBITT, Esq., Divisional Officer, Surrey County Fire Brigade. 

George William RUSHGROVE, Sub-Officer, Denbighshire and Montgomeryshire Fire Brigade. (Welshpool.) 

113

B.E.M. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division) : (Third Supplement to the L/G. 41976, 4 th March 1960, pp. 

1729.) 

Ivor Llewellyn GRIFFITHS, Fireman, Warwick County Fire Brigade. (Kenilworth.) 

The Warwick County Fire Brigade was called to a fire at a factory near Coventry. The fire was serious and the interior of the 

building, was extremely hot and filled with smoke. Fireman Griffiths went into the building behind a Divisional Officer to follow 

the line of hose. After a while he realised that the Divisional Officer had stopped and he listened for any sound of movement. He 

heard groans and after searching found that the Divisional Officer had fallen into an assembly pit 5 feet deep, that he was semiconscious 

and had injured his head. Fireman Griffiths helped the injured officer out of the pit and persuaded him to leave the 

building. He attempted to do so but collapsed in an unconscious state. Despite his own distress, due to the excessive smoke 

conditions, Fireman Griffiths succeeded in carrying the officer to a doorway, a distance of 90 feet, before he, himself, collapsed. 

By his courageous and timely action Fireman Griffiths undoubtedly saved the life of the Divisional Officer. 

B.E.M. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division) : (Third Supplement to the L/G. 41976, 8 th March 1960, pp. 

1729.) 

Norman William STEELE, Fireman, York County Borough Fire Brigade. (Holgate.) 

The York Fire Brigade received a call to a collapsed building in Monkgate. The roof, floors and part of the side walls had fallen in 

and a man was trapped beneath the debris. Rescue tunnelling revealed that he was alive but injured and a doctor was sent for to 

administer morphia. A further tunnel was driven into the debris to the side of the injured man. 

Fireman Steele went in and found that the man was trapped along the length of his body and by his head, but was conscious. In 

most dangerous conditions Fireman Steele remained with the injured man to comfort and encourage him, and to pass back 

information to assist subsequent rescue operations which lasted for more than six hours. 

O.B.E 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of .the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 42051, 11 th June 1960. 

pp.3985.) 

Francis MEES, Esq., B.E.M., Chief Officer, Berkshire and Reading Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 42051, 11 th June 1960. 

pp.3987.) 

Edwin John ABRA, Esq., Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Thomas BIRTWISTLE, Esq., Chief Officer, Blackburn Fire Brigade. 

Eric George CLEMENT, Esq., Divisional Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. 

James Petrie MCINTYRE, Esq., B.E.M., Divisional Officer (Grade I), Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

James Henry WEIR, Esq., Chief Officer, Northampton Fire Brigade. 

B.E.M. 


of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned (Supplement to the L/G. 42051, 11 th June 1960, pp 4001.) 

Robert Wallis BRAY, Assistant Divisional Officer, Portsmouth Fire Brigade. (Southsea.) 

Charles Taylor IMRIE, Assistant Divisional Officer, South-Eastern Area Fire Brigade, Scotland. (Edinburgh. 

George Thomas Arthur STURGIS, Station Officer, Leicestershire and Rutland Fire Brigade. (Market Harborough.) 

Harold Walter WESTON, Station Officer, Wiltshire Fire Brigade. (Calne.) 

Q.F.S.M. 


undermentioned, (Supplement to the L/G. 42051, 11 th June 1960, pp 4006.) 


Cyril OUTHWAITE, Chief Officer, North Riding of Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

William Bell MUIR, O.B.E., Chief Officer, Northumberland Fire Brigade. 

Reginald Robert LLOYD, Chief Officer, Croydon Fire Brigade. 

Daniel Gerald JONES, Chief Officer, Carmarthenshire and Cardiganshire Joint Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND. 

Alexander James GREENSLADE, Firemaster, Fife Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 42162, 11 th October 1960. pp. 6850.) 

William James GORMAN, O.B.E., B.E.M. Chief Officer, Hong Kong Fire Brigade. 

A fire broke out in an old four storey block facing Hong Kong Harbour. A flash over among drums of chemical stored there blew 

out an iron grille and heavy door and killed a hawker. The entire ground floor with the lower wooden staircase was immediately 

enveloped in flames and the Fire Brigade called out. The first two appliances arrived on the scene barely five minutes after the 

call but ten inmates had already jumped from verandahs to the street, five losing their lives in so doing. The situation had become 

extremely serious, and the whole building was in imminent danger of collapse; the fire was spreading rapidly and the buildings on 

either side were stocked with kerosene, matches and chemical, all in great quantity. 

114

An onlooker then told a police officer that an elderly Chinese woman might perhaps still be in the house next door. This officer 

searched the ground and first floors but the whole house was filled with smoke and he was blinded and choked and forced to leave. 

When he had recovered in the fresh air he reported the story to the Chief Officer Gorman who had arrived and was directing 

operations. 

Mr. Gorman at once ran into the house without seeking either a mask or any help. He searched the second floor, discovered a 70 

year old woman unconscious under a bed and carried her to the first floor in spite of the suffocating smoke. Here he was met by a 

fireman who helped him to carry the woman to safety. 

On a subsequent occasion Chief Officer Gorman displayed great bravery and resource when in command of rescue operations 

following a fire and an explosion on a ship carrying a cargo of oil. 

These awards were made following the Cheapside Whisky warehouse disaster in which 19 firemen were killed. 

Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 42162, 11 th October 1960. pp. 6850.) 

Peter Johnstone McGILL, Station Officer, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

James McMurray DUNLOP, Fireman. Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division): (Supplement to the L/G. 42162, 11 th October 1960. pp. 6850.) 

Charles NEESON, Sub-Officer, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

George Buchanan ALEXANDER, Fireman, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

John NICHOLSON, Fireman, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

James GRIBBEN, Constable, City of Glasgow Police Force. 

For gallantry, leadership and devotion to duty when fighting a disastrous fire in a congested built up area in Glasgow. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct.--(Supplement to the L/G. 42162, 11 th October 1960, pp. 6852.) 

William WATTERS, Fireman, Glasgow Fire Brigade (Glasgow). 

For services during a disastrous fire in Glasgow. 



Arnold Thomas OWRID, Divisional Officer, Manchester Fire Brigade. 

John HOWE, Chief Officer, Salford Fire Brigade. 

Albert PICKERING, Chief Officer, Oldham Fire Brigade. 

Bernard Anthony CHRISTMAS, Chief Officer, Cornwall Fire Brigade. 

NORTHERN IRELAND 

Thomas John BROWNE, Divisional Officer 


Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. (Supplement to the L/G. 42231, 31 st December 1960, pp. 8898.) 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : C.B.E. 

Albert Walter Alexander PARAMOR, Esq., O.B.E., Chief Fire and Ambulance Officer, Birmingham. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. O.B.E. (Supplement to the L/G. 42231, 1 st 

January 1961, pp. 11.) 

John Arthur BROADBENT, Esq., Chief Officer, Wiltshire County Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. M.B.E. (Supplement to the L/G. 42231, 1 st 

January 1961, pp. 8904.) 

James Hugh HELM, Esq., Chief Officer, Isle of Ely Fire Brigade. 

Edward Alfred Rutkin HIBBITT, Esq., Divisional Officer, Surrey County Fire Brigade. 

Walter James NEAL, Esq., Chief Fire Officer, Atomic Energy Research Establishment, Harwell. 

William Hyslop PAUL, Esq., Divisional Officer, Liverpool Fire Brigade. 

Frederick Roland TRUST, Esq., Divisional Officer (Senior Staff Officer), London Fire Brigade. (Supplement to the L/G. 42231, 

1 st January 1961, pp. 19.) 

British Empire Medal (Civil Division). (Supplement to the L/G. 42231, 1 st January 1961, pp. 8918.) 

George STEPHENSON, Sub-Officer, Hull Fire Brigade. (Kingston-upon-Hull.) 

Albert Alfred STREET, Sub-Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. (Ringwood.) 

John Hector WILKIE, Station Officer, Angus Area Fire Brigade. (Dundee.) 


undermentioned. (Supplement to the L/G. 42231, 1 st. January 1961, pp. 32.) 


Harold BRETHERICK, Assistant Chief Officer, Staffordshire Fire Brigade. 

Stanley Frank WILLEY, M.B.E. Chief Officer, Exeter Fire Brigade. 

John MclNTYRE, M.B.E., Chief Officer, Cumberland Fire Brigade. 

115

William HINDLEY, Divisional Officer, Lancashire Fire Brigade. 

Frank Lionel George HOPKINS, Divisional Officer, Essex Fire Brigade. 

William Hyslop PAUL, Esq., Divisional Officer, Liverpool Fire Brigade. 

Frederick Roland TRUST, Esq. Divisional Officer, (Senior Staff Officer), London Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 42370, 2 nd June 1961 

pp. 4160./1/2) 

Stanley McINTOSH, Esq. Assistant Firemaster, Lanarkshire Area Fire Brigade. see above 

William MELVILLE, Sub-Officer, Western Area Fire Brigade, Gourock. 

Tom MURCH, Esq. Assistant Chief Officer, Gloucestershire Fire Brigade. 

David Adamson PALMER, Esq. Commandant, Scottish Fire Service Training School, Scottish Home Dept. 

Norman Frank RICHARDS, Esq. Chief Officer, Grimsby Fire Brigade. 

Arthur James SMITH, Esq., Divisional Officer and Deputy Chief Officer, Nottingham Fire Brigade. 


of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned. (Supplement to the L/G. 42370, 2 nd June 1961 pp. 

4171/2.) 

Wilfred Herbert AYNSLEY, Sub-Officer, Herefordshire Fire Brigade. (Leominster.) 

Frank GRAVES, Sub-Officer, Cambridgeshire Fire Brigade. (Cottenham.) 

Thomas ITHELL, Assistant Divisional Officer, Cheshire Fire Brigade. (Chester.) 


of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G 42370, 10 th June 

1961, pp. 4176.) 


Robert Leonard LEACH, Chief Officer, Dorset Fire Brigade. 

Albert Edward HARRIS, Divisional Officer, Middlesex Fire Brigade. 

John Henry SMETHURST, Chief Officer, Barrow-in-Furness Fire Brigade. 

Sidney Herbert BOULTER, Assistant Chief Officer, Worcestershire and Worcester Fire Brigade. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct: (Supplement to the L/G 42388, 20 th June 1961, pp 4577.) 

For services during the devastating floods in .Southern England and South Wales. 

Harold William GWYNN, Station Officer, Cornwall Fire Brigade (St. Columb). 

Frank Sloggett HENWOOD, Assistant Divisional Officer, Cornwall Fire Brigade (Wadebridge). 

Don Chalmers MITCHELL, Station Officer, Bath Fire Brigade (Bathford). 

Joseph Charles STICKLAND, Sub-Officer, Bath Fire Brigade (Bath). 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry, (Civil Division) : (Supplement to the L/G. 42471, 26 th September 1961, pp. 

6965.) 

Henry William STANSFIELD, Sub-Officer, Middlesex Fire Brigade. (London, N.8.) 

Sub-Officer Stansfield was in charge of an appliance called to a house which was found to be well alight on both floors. On 

learning that a young boy was still in the house Stansfield with another member of the crew, both wearing breathing apparatus, 

climbed an extension ladder to the first floor. Stansfield was at first unable to enter the house. The heat was unbearable and the 

hose reel jet was rendered useless. A line of hose from another appliance was passed to him and with this he was able to fight his 

way into the room where he found a child lying on a bed. He carried the child to the window and handed him to the waiting 

fireman to be carried down. On arrival at hospital the child was found to be dead. Stansfield risked losing his life or sustaining 

severe injury in effecting the rescue. 


The QUEEN has been graciously pleased, to approve the award of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to 

the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 42552, 1 st January 1962, pp.32.) 


James Ronald GOODWIN, Divisional Officer (Deputy Chief Officer), Shropshire Fire Brigade. 

Albert Ernest HURRELL, Divisional Officer, Suffolk and Ipswich Fire Brigade. 

Norman Frederick BROWN, Divisional' Officer (Deputy Chief Officer), Coventry.Fire Brigade. 

Jack GARSIDE, Divisional Officer (Deputy Chief Officer), Bradford Fire Brigade. 

Cyril THOMAS, Chief. Officer, Monmouthshire Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 42552, 1 st January 

1962, pp 13.) 

Benjamin JONES, Esq., Chief Officer, Sheffield Fire Brigade. 

James Duncan McNICOL, Esq., M.B.E., Firemaster, Northern Area Fire Brigade. 

David Wheway DAVIES, Esq., Divisional Officer and Deputy Chief Officer, Denbighshire and Montgomeryshire Fire Brigade. 

Eric Arthur GRIFFITHS, Esq., Divisional Officer iand Deputy Chief Officer, Bournemouth Fire Brigade. 

116


ndermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 42552, 1 st January 1962, pp. 27.) 

Robert Newton BATES, Station Officer, Kent Fire Brigade; (Sevenoaks) 

Robert Nicol MUIR, Station Officer, South Western Scotland Area Fire Brigade. (Kilniarhock.) 

Percival Victor POOLEY, Assistant Divisional Officer, Wolverhampton Fire Brigade. 

Richard Cowlishaw SMEDLEY, Station Officer, Derbyshire Fire Brigade (Ashbourne.) 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct: (Supplement to the L/G. 42712, 26 th June 1962, pp. 5104.) 

Wilfred John Clarence CARTER, Sub-Officer, Cornwall Fire Brigade. (Camborne). 

For rescuing two youths from a flooded cave. 

Maurice Walter YOUNG, Leading Fireman, Kent Fire Brigade. (Dover). 

For attempting to rescue a child who had fallen down a deep well. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division): (Supplement to the L/G 42789, 25 th September 1962, 

pp.7509.) 

Reginald Victor ANDREWS, Leading Fireman, Bristol Fire Brigade. 

A fire broke out in the engine room of the motor vessel "Port Townsville" lying in the Royal Edward Docks, Avonmouth and a 

man was trapped below. Leading Fireman Andrews and a Fireman, both wearing breathing apparatus, descended to the engine 

room with a line of hose. In the dark, and in intense heat and smoke, they made their way to a bulkhead. Hearing a sound of 

moaning, Andrews instructed the Fireman to remain outside while he entered the smoke-filled bulkhead where he found a man 

who was semi-conscious. He managed to get the man to the opening of the bulkhead eight feet away, where the Fireman was 

waiting, and together they succeeded in bringing him to the foot of the ladder leading to the engine room entrance where 

assistancewas given to bring the man to the top. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct (Supplement to the L/G 42789, 25 th September 1962, pp. 7511.) 

Terence MEAD, Fireman, Bristol Fire Brigade. 

For helping to rescue a man from the engine room during a fire in a motor vessel. 


To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G 42870, 1 st January 

1963, pp. 15.) 

Oliver Charles BUDD, Esq., Chief Officer, Preston Fire Brigade. 

Robert Wilson DUNN, Esq., Divisional Officer (Grade II), South-Eastern Area Fire Brigade, Scotland. 

Digby Percy JORDAN, Esq., Divisional Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

Ernest SMITH, Esq., Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Most Excellent Order of the British Empire Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division. 

Jocelyn Brian VICKERY, Esq., Chief Officer, Nottinghamshire Fire Brigade. 


undermentioned:: (Supplement to the L/G 42870, 1 st January 1963, pp. 27.) 

Donald BEATON, Fireman, Western Area Fire Brigade, Scotland. 

Arthur Robert LEE, Station Officer, Yorkshire West Riding Fire Brigade. (Penistone). 

Horace David ROBINSON, Sub-Officer, Essex Fire Brigade. (Stansted). 

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to 

the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G 42870, 1 st January 1963, pp. 32.) 


James Henry RABY, Divisional Officer, Cheshire Fire Brigade. 

Robert BEGG, lately Assistant Chief Officer (Deputy Chief Officer), Liverpool Fire Brigade. 

William Roy HOWELLS, M.B.E., Chief Officer, Herefordshire Fire Brigade. 

Frederick George Cyril CHANDLER, Divisional Officer, Buckinghamshire Fire Brigade. 

Bert Ernest Royce CUTTING, Chief Officer, West Ham Fire Brigade. 



of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 43343, 13 th June 

1964, pp.4969.) 


Harold James TERRY, M.B.E., Chief Officer, Derbyshire Fire Brigade. 

Frederick John CAPRON, Chief Officer, Warwickshire Fire Brigade. 

Ernest Charles WOOKEY, Divisional Officer, Bristol Fire Brigade. 

117

Joseph EDWARDS, Assistant Divisional Officer (Deputy Chief Officer), Great Yarmouth Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND 

George Patrick Joseph COOPER, Assistant Firemaster, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division) (Sixth Supplement to the L/G. 43348, 13 th June 1964, pp. 

4986.) 

William George RANSON, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. (Southall, Middlesex.) 

A fire broke out in a back room on the first floor of a house and two women and two children were trapped in the room above, the 

staircase being impassable. An escape was brought into use which, because the back garden was inaccessible, had to be pitched to 

the roof from a side road. Fireman Ranson mounted the escape followed by two other firemen. He crawled spreadeagled across 

the sloping roof to a dormer window, from which a woman was hanging above the rooms on fire, while the other men made their 

way along the ridge of the roof to a small flat roof above the window. Fireman Ranson then braced himself in the window opening 

and passed the woman up to the men above repeating this procedure with the children. He then entered the room which by now 

was very hot and smoky to rescue the other woman, who had collapsed, and with difficulty lifted her through the window and up 

to safety. The women and children were assisted across the roof to the escape. It is certain that but for the initiative and personal 

courage displayed by Fireman Ranson, lives would have been lost. 


of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned; (Supplement to the L/G. 43343, 13 th June 1964, pp. 4965.) 

Herbert ARMSTRONG, Sub-Officer, Yorkshire North Riding Fire Brigade. (Guisborough.) 

George CRABTREE, Station Officer, Auxiliary Fire Service, West Riding of Yorkshire. (Hebden Bridge.) 

James CROSBIE, Assistant Divisional Officer, Hastings Fire Brigade. (St. Leonards.) 

Duncan M. FRASER, Station Officer, Perth and Kinross Fire Brigade. (Dunblane.) 

Miss Gladys Dorothy GUNNER, Assistant Group Officer, Auxiliary Fire Service, Middlesex Fire Brigade. (Edmonton.) 

Frank MEADOWCROFT, Assistant Divisional Officer, West Sussex Fire Brigade. (Chichester.) 

Miss Mary NICOLL, Leading Firewoman, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 


Most Excellent Order of the British Empire To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order 

: (Supplement to the L/G. 43529, 1 st January 1965, pp.10. 

Leslie William Thomas LEETE, Esq., M.B.E. Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : Supplement to the L/G. 43529, 1 st January 1965, 

pp.10.) 

John William Edmunds JONES, Esq., B.E.M., Chief Officer, Glamorgan Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 43529, 1 st January 

1965, pp.15/16/18.) 

Ernest Edward BUSCHENFELD, Esq. Chief Fire Officer and Ambulance Supervisor, Wallasey Fire Brigade and Ambulance 


Thomas Stott HARRISON, Esq., Chief Officer, Southend-on-Sea Fire Brigade. 

Reginald William PUDDEPHATT, Esq. Divisional Officer, Berkshire and Reading Fire Brigade. 

Conrad James SANDERS, Esq., Assistant Chief Officer, Wiltshire Fire Brigade. 


undermentioned. (Supplement to the L/G. 43529, 1 st January 1965, pp. 29/30.) 

George Geddes GREEN, Sub-Officer, North-Eastern Fire Brigade, Scotland. (Buckie.) 

Margaret Sara, Mrs. JACOBS, Group Officer, Auxiliary Fire Service, London. (London, N.W.6.) 

George LEASK, Station Officer, Lerwick Fire Station. 

Edmund Francis LEPPARD, Assistant Divisional Officer, Grimsby Fire Brigade 

Margaret Sara, Mrs. JACOBS, Group Officer, Auxiliary Fire Service, London. (London, N.W.6.) 

Miss Agnes Patricia RICHARDSON, Assistant Group Officer, Birmingham Fire Brigade. (Sutton Coldfield.) 

Russell SNELLING, Station Officer, Norfolk Fire Brigade. (Thetford.) 

Frederick Claude TOPLIS, Station Officer, Auxiliary Fire Service, Sheffield 

1st January 1965. 

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to 

the undermentioned; Q.F.S.M. (Supplement to the L/G. 43529, 1 st January 1965, pp. 32.) 


John KELLY, Divisional Officer (Deputy Chief Officer), Stoke-on-Trent Fire Brigade. 

Ronald FRENCH, M.B.E., Chief Officer, Leeds Fire Brigade. 

Frank TAYLOR, Chief Officer, Liverpool Fire Brigade. 

James ELLIS, M.B.E., Chief Officer, Essex Fire Brigade. 

118

Bame Albert Walter MORTLEY, Divisional Officer (Deputy Chief Officer), Flintshire Fire Brigade. 

Most Excellent Order of the British Empire 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. M.B.E. (Supplement to the L/G. 43667, 12 th 

June 1965, pp. 5485.) 

Victor George BLEWDEN, Esq. B.E.M. Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Eric DAWES, Esq, Divisional Officer, West Riding of Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

John Bryan FORSTER, Esq. Divisional Officer, Auxiliary Fire Service, Kent Fire Brigade. 

John Gordon FRENCH, Esq., Chief Officer, Norwich Fire Brigade. 

George Frederick GOODMAN, Esq., Divisional Officer, Birmingham Fire Brigade. 

12th June 1965. 


of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: Q.F.S.M. (Supplement to the L/G. 43667, 

12 th June 1965, pp. 5503.) 


Arthur James MILBERY, Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Robert William Austin NEWBURY, Divisional Officer, Glamorgan Fire Brigade. 

Joseph Gerard RYAN, Assistant Chief Officer, Lancashire Fire Brigade. 

Leonard Alfred WOOD, O.B.E., Chief Officer, Bournemouth Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND 

Harry Roy MACKAY, O.B.E., Firemaster, South Western Area Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 43667, 12 th June 1965, 

pp. 5503.) 

Leslie Alan ASHTON, Esq., Chief Experimental Officer, Fire Research Station, Ministry of Technology. 

Eric Wilfred PARKER, Esq., Administrative and Establishment Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased on the occasion of the Celebration of Her Majesty's Birthday, to approve the award 

of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 43667, 12 th June 1965, pp. 5501.) 

George Wallett JENKINSON, Sub-Officer, Lincolnshire (Holland) Fire Brigade. 

Edward Arthur KELLINGTON, Sub-Officer, Nottinghamshire Fire Brigade. 

Miss Mabel Alice LARKIN, Group Officer, Lancashire Fire Brigade. 

George Herbert SCOTT, Station Officer, South- Eastern Area Fire Brigade, West Lothian. 

William Joseph SIMPSON, Station Officer, Auxiliary Fire Service, Manchester. 

James SULLIVAN, Leading Fireman, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

Queen's Commendation for brave conduct: (Third Supplement to the L/G 43734, 10 th August 1965, pp. 7568.) 

John Ambrose Bloxham BRAIN, Fireman, Kent Fire Brigade. (Gillingham. Medway F. Stn,.White watch.) 

For rescuing a man who had fallen down a shaft in a disused quarry. 

A fine example of a rescue using the technology of the time – a 220 ft manilla rescue line and about eight firemen to provide the 

‘muscle‘. Fm. Brain, slim, tall and angular with about 10 years service was picked by SubO. Stone to carry out the rescue and 

one leg of the line was placed under John‘s arms around the chest and the other around his thighs. John was also fitted with a 

second line, for safety. He was then lowered into the 140ft shaft which ventilated a tunnel below linking two quarries. 

It is believed the boy had been exploring the ventilation shaft but with a line that was too short!! When the boy reached the end of 

his line he found he was not at the bottom of the shaft and he was too weak to climb back. He eventually fell. His friend, who had 

remained at the top, raised the alarm. 

The young man, about 17/18 years old, was hauled to the surface and taken to hospital. Fortunately, he was not as seriously 

injured as would have been expected. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division) : (Third Supplement to the L/G. 43845, 21 st December 1965, 

pp. 11992.) 

Bryan John SHOVELLER, Fireman, Kent Fire Brigade. (Sittingbourne.) 

A boy fell into a disused well and the Fire Brigade was called on to assist in his rescue. The well was about 325 feet deep with a 

diameter of about 3 feet reducing to about 2 feet 6 inches at the bottom. Tests showed that the air in the well was unbreathable 

below 120 feet. 

Fireman Shoveller volunteered to descend. Wearing breathing apparatus he was lowered into the well and on reaching the bottom 

found that the boy was dead, his badly mutilated body entangled in timber and metal debris. Owing to the narrowness of the well it 

was necessary to haul up the boy's body ahead of the fireman. This was a slow and difficult operation during which there was a 

danger that the line would break as a result of rubbing on the brick sides of the well, and that in the cramped conditions the 

fireman's breathing apparatus might be knocked off. Fireman Shoveller calmly and efficiently carried out an arduous, unpleasant 

task under conditions of great danger of which he was fully aware but which he accepted without hesitation. 

A tragedy and a most unpleasant job. In year 2009, Bryan is still modest but proud of his actions. He recalls the event lucidly 

and always says it was made easier by the total confidence he had in his colleagues including his brother, SubO. Ken Shoveller. 

Bryan said it was important to him that many of his fellow crew members were, like him, ex servicemen. 

119

Queen's Commendation for brave conduct: (Third Supplement to the L/G. 43845, 21 st December 1965, pp. 11992.) 

Robert William Francis GOODALL, Fireman, Manchester Fire Brigade. 

For rescuing a man from a burning house. 


M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 44004, 11 th June 1966, 

pp. 6548, 6548. ) 

George Charles PACKER, Esq. B.E.M. Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade 

John William STONEHOUSE, Esq. Chief Officer, City of Lincoln Fire Brigade. 

Winston OSBORNE, Station Officer, Auxiliary Fire Service, Leicester. 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for Gallantry: (Third 

Supplement L/G 44138, 11 th October 1966, pp. 10979). 

Alfred Frederick William HUDSON, Station Officer, Cambridgeshire and Isle of Ely Fire Brigade. 

Degary Edward SMITH, Station Officer, Glamorgan Fire Service. 

THE QUEEN has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration of Her Majesty's Birthday, to approve the award 

of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: 

Queen's Fire Service Medal. 


Thomas NAYLOR, Chief Fire Officer, Rotherham Fire Brigade. 

Harold Frederick CHISNALL, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

William Frederick HOARE, Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Arthur BLOOMFIELD, Chief Fire Officer, Shropshire Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND 

Andrew SCOTT, lately Divisional Officer, Grade I, South Eastern Area Fire Brigade. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : O.B.E. (Supplement to the L/G. 44004, 11 th June 

1966, pp. 6541. ) 

Reginald Robert LLOYD, Esq., Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade- 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : M.B.E. (Supplement to the L/G. 44004, 11 th 

June 1966, pp. 6545.) 

Raymond HUGHES, Esq. Deputy Chief Officer, Hertfordshire Fire Brigade. 

Angus Murray LEARMONT, Esq. Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Liverpool Fire Brigade. 

George Charles PACKER, Esq. B.E.M., Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

John William STONEHOUSE, Esq. Chief Officer, City of Lincoln Fire Brigade. 


of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G 44004, 11 th June 1966, pp. 

6559/60.) 

Arthur Henry MARTIN, Assistant Divisional Officer, Cardiff Fire Brigade. 

John McCLURG, Leading Fireman, Lanarkshire Area Fire Brigade. 

Winston OSBORNE, Station Officer, Auxiliary Fire Service, Leicester. 

Harry ROBERTS, Sub-Officer, Lancashire Fire Brigade. 

Lewis Arnold Bryan WHITE, Station Officer, Braintree Fire Brigade, Essex. 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for Gallantry: M.B.E. 

(Third Supplement to the L/G. 44138, 11 th October 1966, pp. 10979.) 

Sydney Edward POLLOCK, Divisional Officer, Belfast Fire Brigade. 

A crane driver, for a wager, climbed to the top of the jib of a crane and then lost his nerve and called for help. On arrival at the 

scene Divisional Officer Pollock arranged for the crane to be gently swung across the building under construction and lowered 

until a portion of the jib was resting on the top of the roof. The jib extended approximately 50 feet beyond the building and at a 

height of 180 feet. Without awaiting the arrival of ropes or lines and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, Pollock 

moved out along the jib to reach the man. He found him lying face down with his head at the extremity of the jib, which was 

approximately 15 inches wide at this point. Pollock succeeded at considerable risk to himself in turning the man round so that he 

was facing the building and he then proceeded to manoeuvre him along the jib to safety. The operation was undertaken in 

darkness and under adverse weather conditions with the jib lifting and swinging in the wind with the movements of the men on it. 

The risks were increased by the jib being constructed of triangular sectioned steel, giving a minimum foothold when in the 

120

horizontal position and being covered with grease. Coupled with the physical difficulty of moving along the jib Pollock was faced 

with the problem of the unknown mental state and possible reactions of the man being rescued. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division). B.E.M. (Third Supplement to the L/G/ 44138, 11 th October 

1966, pp. 10980.) 

Robert GRAY, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. (London E.5.) 

Fireman Gray was a member of a fire appliance crew called to a house fire. Smoke was coming out of the windows on the third 

floor at the top of the house. Gray immediately mounted the escape, which was awkwardly pitched, and brought down a child. 

He returned to rescue the mother of the child who was kneeling on a window sill but she jumped on to the ladder and slipped 

through the rungs. In saving her from slipping further Gray fractured his wrist. None the less he managed to retrieve her with his 

other arm and, while supporting her encouraged a man who was above him at the window to climb out on to the ladder. By this 

time, flames were breaking out of the windows and heat and smoke were coming up the face of the building from below. With 

great difficulty Fireman Gray managed to get the woman safely to the ground and the man followed. All were taken to hospital. It 

is certain that but for the courage and determination of Fireman Gray lives would have been lost. 

Queen's Commendation for brave conduct. (Third Supplement L/G 44138, 11 th October 1966, pp. 10981.) 

Walter Frank ODEY, Sub-Officer, Wiltshire Fire Brigade. (Marlborough.) 

George JOHNSON, Leading Fireman, Wiltshire Fire Brigade. (Marlborough.) 

Robert Maurice Douglas COX, Fireman, Wiltshire Fire Brigade. (Marlborough.) 

For rescuing two young children from a blazing building. 


M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. (Supplement to the L/G 44210, 1 st January 

1967, pp. 18.) 

Robert Bruce McLEAN, Esq. Chief Officer, West Hartlepool Fire Brigade. 

Herbert Arthur Brettell SHEPHERD, Esq. Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. (Supplement to the L/G 44210, 1 st January 

1967, pp. 18/19.) 

THE QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service 

to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G 44210, 1 st January 1967, pp. 32/33.) 

Queen's Fire Service Medal 


Albert LEESE, Chief Fire Officer, Coventry Fire Brigade. 

Ernest ALLDAY, Divisional Officer, Grade I, London Fire Brigade. 

James Butler McTERNAN, Divisional Officer, Grade I, London Fire Brigade. 

George Haley LISTER, Chief Fire Officer, Kmgston-upon-Hull Fire Brigade. 

John Hampden FORDHAM, C.B.E. lately Chief Fire Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G, 44210, Ist January 

1967, pp. 15.) 

Jack Edward ANDREW, Esq., Chief Officer, Bury Fire Brigade. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: Supplement to the L/G 44210, Ist. January 

1967, pp 15. 

Archibald Howitt WARREN, Esq., M.B.E., Chief Officer, Cheshire Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division). (Supplement to the L/G 44279, 31 st March 1967, pp 3586.) 

Peter John SHALLIKER, Fireman, Manchester Fire Brigade. 

Fireman Shalliker was a member of the crew of a fire appliance sent to a house fire in the suburbs of Manchester. The ground 

floor and staircase were well alight and the only means of entry was via the first floor. Shalliker donned breathing apparatus and, 

climbing on to the roof of a bay window, endeavoured to enter through a bedroom window. Finding it impossible to achieve this 

because of the restricted amount of room available he discarded his bulky breathing apparatus set, entered the house, and 

thoroughly searched the four bedrooms and the rest of the first floor despite the dense smoke and heat from the fire below. 

In the bathroom he found a heavily built, unconscious man whom he dragged to the room by which he entered, intending to lower 

the man through the window. Here he was joined by colleagues who were wearing breathing apparatus. The man could not be 

lowered through the narrow bedroom window and as the fire was by then under control, he was carried down the stairs and taken 

to hospital. 

Fireman Shalliker was treated for exhaustion and multiple cuts to his hands and wrists. By entering the room without the 

protection of breathing apparatus he exposed himself to great danger and displayed devotion to duly of the highest order. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent, Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 44326, 10 th June 

1967, pp. 6283,) 

121

William Albert COGGAN, Esq. Divisional Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

Benjamin Ernest FRUER, Esq. Divisional Officer, Auxiliary Fire Service, London Fire Brigade. 

James Edward YAPP, Esq. lately Assistant Chief Officer, Birmingham Fire Brigade. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 44326, 10 th June 1967, 

pp. 6297.) 

Terence William SYRETT, Esq., Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

10th June 1967 



Queen's Fire Service Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 44326, 10 th June 1967, pp. 6300.) 


Aubrey Leonard BULLION, Chief Fire Officer, Somerset Fire Brigade. 

William Arthur SAUNDERS, Divisional Officer, Grade I, London Fire Brigade. 

Albert Edward THORNH1LL, Assistant Chief Officer (Deputy Chief Officer), Nottinghamshire Fire Brigade. 

Desmond Ronald SQUIRE, Divisional Officer, Grade I, London Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND 

Samuel Harris PARK, Firemaster, Central Area Fire Brigade. 

British Empire Medal (Civil Division). (Supplement to the L/G. 44326, 10 th June 1967, pp. 6296.) 

Robert Lane HOLYOAKE, Sub-Officer, Worcester City and County Fire Brigade. 

Reginald Percivial SMITH, Station Officer, Wiltshire Fire Brigade. 

Mona Eileen, Mrs. TIMMS, Senior Leading Firewoman, Auxiliary Fire Service, Warwickshire County Fire Brigade. 

Ernest WHITEHEAD, Leading Fireman, British Transport Docks Board. 

Robert Adam WILSON, Assistant Divisional Officer, Newcastle and Gateshead Fire Service. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division). (Second supplement of the L/G. 44366, 18 th July, 1967, 

pp.7894.) 

James William TODD, Assistant Divisional Officer (now Divisional Officer), Norfolk Fire Brigade. (Great Yarmouth). 

A fire started at an underground Radar Control Centre in a store room situated at the far end of the building, two storeys down, 

which was accessible only through a series of narrow passages. The intensity of the fire was increased by the burning of furniture, 

bedding and timber and fibreboard partitions in the rooms below. A rapid build up of dense smoke was circulated by the 

mechanical ventilator system throughout the passages. 

Assistant Divisional Officer Todd arrived soon after the fire-call and led three men into the building using breathing apparatus. 

Torches were ineffective in the smoke-logged atmosphere and guide lines had to be used. Todd worked continuously for five 

hours and had entered the building nine times wearing breathing apparatus before he was relieved by a Divisional Officer. Later, 

the crew detailed to relieve the Divisional Officer found him collapsed at the bottom of the stairs with his face mask off. He was 

an exceptionally heavy man and the efforts of two officers to move him were in vain. On hearing of this Todd without hesitation 

led a rescue team into the building to rescue him. 

With their aid he managed to lift the unconscious man to the top of the stairs, where with help they were able to get him out into 

the open. Todd, who had sustained considerable burns to the face and neck and had worked continuously at the incident for seven 

hours was the last to come out. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct:--(Second supplement of the L/G. 44366, 18 th July, 1967, pp.7895. An electrician 

and four police offers were also similarly rewarded.) 

Leonard SMITH, Assistant Divisional Officer, West Sussex Fire Brigade. (Horsham). 

Laurence Victor MONK, Station Officer, West Sussex Fire Brigade. (Southwick). 

John William MOORE, Leading Fireman, West Sussex Fire Brigade. (Littlehampton). 

Michael Gerard VERMETTE, Fireman, West Sussex Fire Brigade. (Littlehampton). 

For services when a man was overcome by gas at a Sewage Pumping Station. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct: (Second supplement of the L/G. 44421, 3 rd October 1967, pp.10680.) 

John MALLON, Assistant Divisional Officer, Cambridgeshire and Isle of Ely Fire Brigade. (Cambridge). 


C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 44484, 1 st January 

1968, pp 10) 

Frank Stephen MUMMERY, Esq., Deputy Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

122

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (1st January 1968. 

Supplement to the L/G. 44484, 1 st January 1968, pp. 11. ) 

John JACKSON, Esq., Firemaster, Angus Area Fire Brigade. 

Terence PARRY, Esq., General Secretary, Fire Brigades Union. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 44484, 1 st January 

1968, pp. 17. ) 

James Colin KEWLEY, Esq., lately Senior Fire Service Officer, Ministry of Defence (Royal Air Force). 

THE QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the 


British Empire Medal (Civil Division) (Supplement to the L/G. 44484, 1 st January 1968, pp. 28. ) 

UNITED KINGDOM 

Miss Elsie FEARNYOUGH, Group Officer, Liverpool Fire Brigade. 

Matthew MALLINSON, Station Officer, Westmorland Fire Brigade. 

Frederick Arthur John SLAUGHTER, Station Officer (Auxiliary Fire Service), Essex Fire Brigade. 

Ronald Joseph TAYLOR, Assistant Divisional Officer, Isle of Wight Fire Brigade. 


to the undermentioned: Queen's Fire Service Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 44484, 1 st January 1968, pp. 31. ) 


George Edward Bertram BRUNNER, Chief Fire Officer, Portsmouth Fire Brigade. 

Thomas Mervyn LLOYD, Command Fire Adviser, Army Southern Command, United Kingdom. 

Robert Whitlow BAGOT, Divisional Officer, Grade I, London Fire Brigade. 

William MIDDLETON, Chief Fire Officer, Birkenhead Fire Brigade. 

Herbert James William STRETTEN, Divisional Officer, Grade III, Berkshire and Reading Fire Brigade. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Second supplement to the L/G. 44585, 14 th May 1968, pp. 5455.) 

Ronald Frederick BOULSTRIDGE, Fireman, Kent Fire Brigade, (Rochester (Strood). 

Howard MYERS, Fireman, Kent Fire Brigade (Canterbury). 

For attempting to rescue a woman who had fallen in a hole caused by ground subsidence. 

A mother was walking along an alley running between two rows of houses when she disappeared as the ground literally opened 

up beneath her. The brigade were called and Fm. Myers, an ex Junior Fm. was lowered into the hole. His arm became entrapped 

in the line and he was hauled to the surface and taken to hospital. 

Ex Royal Marine, Ron Boulstridge took his place but he was hit by falling rock and he too went to hospital. StnO. John 

Lipscombe, ex Bootle F.B. was lowered and about 80ft down reached the surface of flowing water. He thought he could see 

something in the water and instructed the T.L. operator to lower him further so that he could ‗doggy paddle‘. He did not find 

anything and, exhausted, he was hauled to the surface. The lady‘s body was never found. The hole was sealed and a decade or so 

later the site was redeveloped. 

Howard retired as a D.O. with the L.F.B. many years later. Ron retired at the usual age (for that era) to become chauffer to the 

Bishop of Rochester but became epileptic, something he blamed on the head injuries he sustained at this job. 

John became a D.O. and at his retirement ‗do‘ a gentleman called and asked to see ‗Mr. Lipscombe‘. He introduced himself as 

the husband of the woman who fell down the…………Unsurprisingly, it was a highly emotional meeting and an amazingly 

generous act by the widower. 

John received a Chief Fire Officer‘s Commendation for his part in this tragic incident but some people would consider he too 

deserved a state award for his actions …..but that‘s another story. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division):-- (Second supplement to the L/G. 44585, 14 th May 1968, 

pp.5454.) 

Terence John Charles DAVENPORT, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. (London S.E.27.) 

Fireman Davenport was a member of the crew of a fire appliance called to a house fire in Brixton. On arrival, flames were seen 

coming from a basement window and the firemen were told that there were two children in the top floor room at the rear of the 

house. 

A ladder was pitched to a top floor window at the front of the house but the conditions there were so bad that, without breathing 

apparatus, it was impossible to proceed any further. Jets of water were provided to attack the fire while firemen attempted a 

rescue from the rear. Entry was made through the first floor window of the neighbouring house but it was not possible to pass a 

ladder through to the rear window. Fireman Davenport, without waiting for alternative ladders, decided to make an immediate 

attempt at rescue. He dropped to the ground from the first floor window, scaled the dividing wall of the two houses and climbed 

the drainpipe to the top floor window of the burning house. He broke the window and made his entry into the room. Owing to the 

heavily smoke-logged conditions and extreme heat in the room, Davenport was forced to worm his way round on his stomach. He 

found a cot containing a child whom he lifted out and handed to a fireman at the window, at which it had now been possible to 

mount a hook ladder. 

123

Davenport then returned to look for the other child but was soon overcome by the smoke and heat. On reaching the window he 

was helped down the ladder to the first floor window-sill where he was supported by two firemen while scaling ladders were 

pitched. He was then assisted to the ground. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division):--(Second supplement to the L/G. 44585, 14 th May 1968, pp. 

5454.) 

Brian William FLETCHER, Sub-Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. (Fareham.) 

Sub-Officer Fletcher was a member of the crew of a fire appliance called to a Hospital where a woman mental patient was 

standing on 

the edge of the roof of a water tank seventy-five feet above ground. The weather was cold and damp and the surface of the metal 

roof was wet. Whilst the woman's attention was distracted Fletcher climbed a vertical ladder to the access door of the tank and 

forced it open. He then removed his boots and tunic and manoeuvred along a nine-inch plank above water twenty-five feet deep 

eventually gaining access through a small hatch to the pitched roof of the tank. 

At this time the woman was in a confused state of mind and was threatening to throw herself off the roof. By watching her 

reactions Fletcher was able to judge the moment to clasp her from behind. He spent approximately thirty-five minutes on the roof 

holding the woman in case she should break away before the rescue was completed. 

Queens Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Second Supplement to the L/G 44634, 16 th July 1968, pp. 7861.) 

David Charles PIKE, Fireman, London Fire Brigade (Chelsfield, Kent). 

For rescuing a woman from drowning. 

William SHAW, Fire Officer, Michael Mine, Fife, National Coal Board (Denbeath). 

For services when a fire broke out in the Michael Mine, Fife. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division). (Third Supplement to the L/G 44673, 10 th September 1968. pp. 

9783.) 

Edward Arthur HARRINGTON, Assistant Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. (London W.2.) 

Assistant Divisional Officer Harrington was a member of the crew of a fire appliance which was called to an hotel where a young 

woman was standing on a ledge 60 ft. above ground level. She was in a highly emotional state and was threatening to jump to the 

ground. A turntable ladder was extended to the corner of the building and efforts were made to persuade the woman to re-enter 

the hotel. She refused to do so and broke away from a fireman who tried to assist her. 

Realising that considerable tact and patience would be required Harrington ascended the turntable ladder, which was at the 

maximum height for safe two-man working, and attached his safety belt to the trussing of the ladder so that he could reach her. He 

took hold of her arm but she resisted any attempt to move and, realising that she was too heavily built for him to hold if she 

slipped, he released his hold. After he had talked to the woman for more than an hour she agreed to come down the ladder and 

moved towards him. Before he could help her on to the ladder she changed her mind and began to retreat along the ledge by 

putting her hands on his shoulders and pushing herself away. Harrington grasped her around her waist, pivoted on his safety belt 

so that his back was to the ladder, and swung her round on to the ladder in front of him. She started to scream and kick, and 

although he held her securely he was unable to descend. Another officer mounted the ladder and positioned himself in front of 

Harrington and the woman, to pin them to the ladder. They descended the upper extension of the ladder a few feet at a time but 

after that Harrington was no longer able to use the safety belt. The woman then became very violent. Every few feet during the 

descent she braced her feet on the ladder so that she could thrust upwards and the two officers had to use all their strength to 

prevent her, and themselves, from being thrown from the ladder. Harrington still had his back to the ladder, clasping the woman 

round the waist and lying back, as far as the angle of the ladder permitted, getting such purchase as was possible with his heels. 

The woman continued to struggle and kick and on reaching the ground was taken to a hospital. 

Assistant Divisional Officer Harrington displayed qualities of tact, perseverance, strength and courage in a most difficult rescue. 

British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division): (Third Supplement to the L/G 44673, 10 th September 1968. pp. 9784.) 

Arthur Edward NICHOLLS, Divisional Officer, Grade III, London Fire Brigade, London W.I. 

For services when a woman was rescued from a ledge of a building 60 feet above ground level. 


O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the Said Most Excellent Order : ( Supplement to the L/G. 44863, 14 th June 1969, 

pp 5970.) 

Edmund Swift CALVERT, Chief Officer, Brighton Fire Brigade. 

Howard Frederick GRIFFITHS, M.B.E., Chief Officer, Suffolk and Ipswich Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 


1969, pp, 5974.) 

George James BOWLES, Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

David John DAVIES, Chief Officer, Merthyr Tydfil Fire Brigade. 

Sydney John MAYALL, Chief Officer, Herefordshire Fire Brigade. 

124


of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned: 

British Empire Medal (Civil Division) (Supplement to the L/G. 44863, 14 th June 1969, pp. 5986.) 

George Andrew Haig CLARK, Station Officer, Portsmouth Fire Brigade. 

George Ernest BUDGE, Works Fireman, Products Works, Beckton, North Thames Gas Board. 

Edwin DAVIES, Station Officer (Part-time), Breconshire and Radnorshire Fire Brigade. 

Joseph William DODD, Sub-Officer (Part-time), Northumberland Fire Brigade. 

Thomas JONES, Sub-Officer (Part-time), Merionethshire Fire Brigade. 

Samuel Edward MEE, Station Officer (Parttime), Derbyshire Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division) (Supplement to the L/G, 44896, 15 th July 1969, pp. 7291.) 

James DOCHERTY, Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Sub-Officer Docherty was a member of the crew of a fire appliance called to a house fire. When the appliance arrived flames 

were coming from the first floor window and smoke from the second floor window, at which three people could be seen. An 

escape ladder was pitched to the second floor and Sub-Officer Docherty climbed through the heat and smoke to the window, 

where two men and a woman were standing on a dressing table. Sub-Officer Docherty grabbed the ankles of one of the men to 

direct his feet on to the ladder, but owing to the intense heat from below, the man withdrew. At a second attempt Sub-Officer 

Docherty succeeded in pulling the man, through the window on to the ladder, pinning him to it with his body. After turning the 

man so that he was facing the ladder, Docherty passed him between his legs and a fireman brought him to the ground. 

Sub-Officer Docherty then took a jet up to the second-floor window where he found that the other man and the woman had fallen 

across a bed near the window. Aware that he would not get them out without assistance and in order to protect the man and 

woman from the fire, Docherty positioned his body through the window and directed a jet on to the fire which had reached the 

doorway. 

Further appliances arrived and a Station Officer ascended the ladder and, with Docherty, entered the room and passed the man out 

to other firemen on the ladder. Firemen wearing breathing apparatus broke through into the bedroom and helped to get the woman 

out to the ladder. In the extremely hazardous conditions. Sub-Officer Docherty acted with great courage and determination. 



of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G, 44863, 15 th July 

1969, pp. 7291.) 



Norman Wilson GOY, Divisional Officer, Grade I (Deputy Chief Officer), Bradford Fire Brigade. 

Reginald Edward Frank WHILLOCK, Divisional Officer, Grade I, London Fire Brigade. 

William BABINGTON, Chief Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. 

Robert Elliott COOPER, Chief Officer, Sunderland Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND 

John STEWART, Firemaster, Lanarkshire Fire Brigade. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G, 44896, 15 th July 1969, pp. 7292) 

Raymond Arthur BARRETT, Retained Fireman, Norfolk Fire Brigade. 

Derrick Harry John BOWMAN, Retained Sub-Officer, Norfolk Fire Brigade. 

For rescuing two small children from a burning house. 

7th October 1969. 

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to give orders for the undermentioned appointment to the Most Excellent Order of 

the British Empire, for the following awards of the British Empire Medal and for the publication in the London Gazette of the 

names of those specially shown below as having received an expression of Commendation "for brave conduct‖. 

To be an Additional Member of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for Gallantry. (Second 

Supplement to the L/G, 44950, 7 th October 1969, pp. 10219.) 

Francis Joseph LORRIGAN, Chief Officer, Carlisle Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry, Civil Division. (Second Supplement to the L/G, 44950, 7 th October 1969, pp. 

10219.) 

Joseph SEWELL, Station Officer, Carlisle Fire Brigade. 

In response to a fire call, a water tender with a crew of one Sub-Officer and four firemen, and Station Officer Sewell were sent to 

railway sidings where a railway van containing ammunition was on fire. Three members of the crew man-handled a nearby ballast 

wagon up the line to within 30 ft. of the burning van to provide cover for the fire-fighters while others prepared to set the pump 

into a pond 300 yards away. Chief Officer Lorrigan arrived at the scene and shortly after there was an explosion and shells, 

shrapnel and debris were flung over a wide area. Due to the violence of the explosion the van was lifted into the air and fell back 

across the rails. 

Chief Officer Lorrigan with the assistance of the crew, ran out two-hoses from the open water using the dip of the embankment as 

a screen. During this action a second explosion occurred but due to the cover afforded by the embankment no one was injured. 

The hose was taken up the embankment across the main lines and behind the ballast wagon. The Chief Officer manned one hose 

125

and Station Officer Sewell the other from behind the ballast wagon until the hoses were lashed to it. It was then discovered that a 

live shell had dropped on to the ballast wagon which was being used as a screen. 

The Chief Officer ordered all personnel to retreat to a safe area 300 yards away adjacent to the pond. As the men were taking up 

their positions there was a third explosion and a further seven explosions took place at 4-6 minute intervals. The two jets of water 

finally extinguished the burning debris and cooled the ammunition in the van, preventing further explosions. 

Chief Fire Officer Lorrigan and Station Officer Sewell showed courage, fortitude and tenacity in extremely dangerous conditions 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Second Supplement to the L/G. 44950, 7 th October 1969, pp. 10221.) 

James BULLEN, Sub-Officer, Carlisle Fire Brigade. 

Brian HODGSON, Fireman, Carlisle Fire Brigade. 

Lawrence MONK, Fireman, Carlisle Fire Brigade. 

John Donald SOUTHWELL, Fireman, Carlisle Fire Brigade. 

Joseph UNDERWOOD, Fireman, Carlisle Fire Brigade. 

For services when a fire broke out in a railway van containing explosives. 




of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G 45117, 

13 th June 1970, pp. 6394.) 



George Ernest SYKES, Divisional Officer, Grade III (Deputy Chief Officer), Grimsby Fire Brigade. 

Ewart Reginald James NORTHCOTT, Divisional Officer, Grade I (Deputy Chief Officer), Cornwall Fire Brigade. 

Peter Howard DARBY, Chief Officer, Lancashire Fire Brigade. 

Sidney Charles HAZELL, Chief Officer, Bath Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND 

Eric William MACINTYRE, Firemaster, Northern Area Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division) (Supplement to the L/G. 21 st July 1970, 45154, pp. 8031.) 

Michael John WALLMAN, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Flames were issuing from the ground and first floor windows in a terraced building and three persons were seen briefly at a second 

floor window. The escape ladder was raised to the window but was set on fire by a flashover. It was impossible to tackle rescue 

work without the assistance of breathing apparatus and as soon as the flames at the front of the building had been knocked back 

Fireman Wallman wearing breathing apparatus mounted the escape to the window where the three persons had been seen. 

Hampered by the encumberment of the apparatus he climbed through the small aperture of the lower half of the open sash window 

of the second floor. The room affected by the fierce fire on the lower floors was very hot indeed and smoke completely obscured 

visibility. Fireman Wallman on entering immediately found two heavily built, unconscious women. He manoeuvered them with 

difficulty through the restricted window to another fireman. Fireman Wallman then heard the sound of breathing and commenced 

to search the room which was congested with furniture. Groping along the wall he found an unconscious eleven year old boy 

whom he carried back to the window and out to a fireman on the escape ladder. Although affected by the heat Fireman Wallman 

resumed his search and found two unconscious men. Being too weak to move them alone he was assisted by two other firemen 

wearing breathing apparatus, to carry one of the victims to the window. He then climbed through the window and carried the man 

down on his shoulders. He ascended the escape ladder again and helped two other firemen to bring out the second victim and with 

assistance from another fireman carried him down. By this time he was on the verge of collapse. He was taken to hospital and 

after oxygen treatment was able to resume his duties. Fireman Wallman was equipped with breathing apparatus which protected 

him from smoke but he was subjected to extreme heat which began to sap his strength soon after he entered the room. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G. 21 st July 1970, pp. 8032.) 

Horace LOUVRE, Leading Fireman, Newcastle-on-Tyne and Gateshead Joint Fire Service. 

For services when fighting a major fire in a large department store. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G. 21 st July 1970, pp. 8032.) 

For services when fighting a major fire in a large department store. 

William George NORMAN, Divisional Officer Grade III, London Fire Brigade. 

Norman ROSE, Divisional Officer Grade III, London Fire Brigade. 

James Leslie McMiLLAN, Sub Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Kenneth William John BIRCH, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Robert Alfred KNELLER, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

For rescuing two firemen trapped under a fallen slab of concrete at a fire in a factory. (Supplement to the L/G. 21 st July 1970, pp. 

8032.) 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division.) (Second Supplement to the L/G 13671, 15 th December 1970.) 

Harold John SNELLING, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

126

Ian Malcolm RICHARDS, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

The Fire Brigade was called to a fire involving an oil storage tank of about 120,000 gallons capacity, which was in the course of 

demolition. During the course of the fire-fighting operations a violent explosion occurred resulting in five firemen and one 

workman being killed. At the time of the explosion Station Officer Snelling and Fireman Richards were standing on a pathway 

close to the base of the tank. The force of the explosion blew Snelling into an adjacent dyke containing a mixture of oil and water 

in which he was completely submerged. Fireman Richards was also thrown off the pathway but was able to cling to the dyke wall 

and was partially immersed in the oily mixture. Fireman Richards called for assistance and a workman threw a length of hose to 

Snelling, who was able to pull himself out. He then passed the hose to Richards, holding on to the end, whilst Richards climbed 

back on to the pathway. 

Snelling was told that a man had fallen into the tank. Although suffering from shock and covered with oil which was affecting 

their eyes Snelling and Richards climbed the external ladder to the top of the 35-foot high tank. This ladder at the top had broken 

away from the side of the tank and was in an extremely unsafe condition. They found that the top of the tank had been completely 

blown off and that a body of a fireman was lying at the bottom of the tank. Snelling instructed Richards to fetch lines and 

breathing apparatus but without waiting for this equipment himself Snelling climbed down an internal steel ladder into the tank. 

When Fireman Richards returned with the breathing apparatus the Station Officer was already in the tank and Richards abandoned 

the apparatus and as quickly as he could joined Snelling inside the tank. The base of the tank was covered by an oily sludge which 

was two or three feet deep in places, the atmosphere was hot and humid and dangerous fumes were present. The fireman was 

partially submerged in the sludge. They freed the body from some piping and then carried it to a dry area from which they hoped 

it could be raised by lines. Unfortunately the man was found to be dead. By now both men were suffering from the effects of the 

fumes and the Divisional Officer realising that they might be overcome ordered them out of the tank. On reaching the outside air 

both men collapsed and were taken to hospital. Although both Station Officer Snelling and Fireman Richards were suffering from 

shock and the effects of the explosion they did not hestitate to climb unsafe ladders and to descend into a fume laden tank to assist 

their comrade and throughout the operation they acted without regard for their own safety. 




Queen's Fire Service Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 45384, 1 st June 1971, pp. 5986.) 


William MOSS, Assistant Chief Officer (Deputy Chief Officer), East Sussex Fire Brigade. 

Stephen George KEELY, Chief Officer, Wolverhampton Fire Brigade. 

William Arthur SPOUGE, Chief Officer, Lincolnshire— Parts of Lindsey—Fire Brigade. 

Edward Fritz Charles NICHOLS, Divisional Officer, Grade I, Gloucestershire Fire Brigade. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G 45384, 12 th June 1971, 

pp. 5966.) 

Harold Frederick CHISNALL, Q.F.S.M., Deputy Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G 45384, 12 th June 1971, 

pp. 5970.) 

William GOULBORN, Divisional Officer, Grade I, Cheshire Fire Brigade. 

Robert James HEATHWOOD, B.E.M., lately Honorary Divisional Officer, Northern Ireland Fire Authority. 

Stanley Ernest SQUIRES, Senior Administrative Officer, Birmingham Fire and Ambulance Service. 

Joseph Jackson UNSWORTH, Chief Officer, Halifax Fire Brigade. 

B.E.M. 


of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G 45384, 12 th June 1971, pp. 5981.) 

British Empire Medal(Civil Division) 

Miss Emily Irene CARTER, Senior Leading Firewoman, London Fire Brigade. 

Frederick Charles DRANE, Station Officer, Essex Fire Brigade. 

James HARRISON, Colliery Fire Officer, Langwith Colliery, North Derbyshire, National Coal Board. 

Sidney MILNES, Works Technical Officer Grade III, Fire Research Station, Boreham Wood, Department of the Environment. 

John Turner SOUTHWELL, Station Officer, Staffordshire Fire Brigade. 

Richard Charles WILES, Sub-Officer, East Riding of Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

Q.F.S.M. 



Queen's Fire Service Medal. (Supplement to the L/G 45384, 12 th June 1971, pp. 5986.) 


William MOSS, Assistant Chief Officer (Deputy Chief Officer), East Sussex Fire Brigade. 

127

Stephen George KEELY, Chief Officer, Wolverhampton Fire Brigade. 

William Arthur SPOUGE, Chief Officer, Lincolnshire — Parts of Lindsey — Fire Brigade. 

Edward Fritz Charles NICHOLS, Divisional Officer, Grade I, Gloucestershire Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND 

John Craig DONNACHIE, Firemaster, North-Eastern Area Fire Brigade. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Third supplement to the L/G. 45405 22 nd June 1971, pp. 6651.) 

Roy LARKING, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Jeffrey Keith BENNETT, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Colin Michael WATTS, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

For rescuing two men from drowning in a flooded gravel pit. 

HOME OFFICE (The London Gazette 45447, 13 th August 1971, pp. 8793.) 

13th August 1971. 

The QUEEN has been pleased by Warrant to appoint James Bingley, Esquire, to be one of the Inspectors of Fire Services, with 

effect from 9 th August. 

13th August 1971. 

The QUEEN has been pleased by Warrant to appoint Francis William Harbidge, Esquire, M.B.E., to be one of the Inspectors of 

Fire Services, with effect from 4 th October.# 

ELIZABETH R. The L/G. 45447, 22 nd October 1971, pp, 8793. 

ELIZABETH THE SECOND, by the Grace of God of the United Kingdom of Great.Britain and Northern 

Ireland and of Our other Realms and Territories QUEEN, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith, To all to 

whom these Presents shall come, Greeting! 

Whereas His late Majesty King Edward the Seventh in consideration of the good services rendered by officers of the Constabulary 

Forces and by persons serving in fire brigades within His Dominions and in Territories under His Protection or Jurisdiction and the 

heroic acts of courage and instances, of conspicuous devotion to duty of such persons, and being desirous of distinguishing such 

meritorious conduct by some mark of His Royal Favour did by Warrant under His Royal Sign Manual dated the 7th July 1909, 

institute a new Medal to be awarded for such services as aforesaid: 

And whereas by a Warrant under Our Sign Manual dated the 19th May 1954, We were pleased to institute a separate medal for 

members of fire services designated "The Queen's Fire Service Medal" and to make, ordain and establish Statutes for .the 

governance thereof: 

And whereas We deem it expedient to make various alterations in the said Warrant: Now therefore We do by these Presents ordain 

that the said Warrant shall be amended-as follows: 

(l) in the third, sixth, seventh and eighth Statutes for the words "Our Secretary of State for the Home Department", wherever they 

appear, there shall be substituted the words " either Our Secretary of State for the Home Department or Our Secretary of State for 

Scotland", and 

(2) at the end of die fifth Statute there shall be added the words "; and a recipient of the Medal (or of either of its predecessors, 

namely The King's Police Medal and The King's Police and Fire Services Medal) shall be entitled, on all occasions when the use 

of such letters is customary, to have placed after his or her names the letters "Q.F.S.M." (or, " K.P.M." or " K.P.F.S.M.", as 

appropriate)." Given at Our Court at Saint James's the Eighth day of October 1971; In the Twentieth Year of Our Reign. 

By Her Majesty's Command, 

R. Maudling 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct (Third supplement to the L/G. 45505, 26 th October 1971, pp.11568.) 

Henry HADDOCK, Assistant Divisional Officer, Staffordshire Fire Brigade. 

Neil'Alfred PRINCE, Fireman, Staffordshire Fire Brigade. 

Donald Leslie RYDER, Leading Fireman, Staffordshire Fire Brigade. 

For services in rescuing the occupant of a house into which a car transporter had crashed. 

CENTRAL CHANCERY OF THE ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD 

St. James's Palace, London S.-W.l. 

7th December 1971. 

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Military Division) 

to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G 45538, 7 th December 1971, pp. 13363.) Clearly not a municipal fire service 

rescue. Included in this list as a representative example of another fire service. Different uniforms - same job and ethics. 

P4177768 Sergeant Thomas Benjamin DOLMAN, Royal Air Force Regiment. 

Sergeant Dolman, a fireman, has served at Royal Air Force Laarbruch since 3rd July 1968 and has been employed on crash/fire 

duties since his arrival. 

On Friday, 28th May 1971, he was not on duty, but was nevertheless assisting in the Fire Section preparations for the Station Open 

Day on Saturday, 29th May 1971. A Dornier light aircraft of the Royal Air Force Laarbruch Flying Club was rehearsing a 

demonstration flying exercise for the Open Day and Sergeant Dolman foresaw a possible accident developing from one of the 

128

aircraft manoeuvres. He immediately ran to the nearest light service vehicle and drove at high speed towards the possible impact 

area, collecting another off-duty fireman on the way. 

As anticipated by Sergeant Dolman, the aircraft failed to recover from the manoeuvre and crashed. Almost immediately it burst 

into flames. 

Sergeant Dolman, who was dressed in light civilian clothing, did not hesitate and, completely disregarding his own safety, 

attempted to rescue a crew member, beating out burning clothing with his hands. It was not until after he had done this that the 

fire vehicle arrived and provided foam cover. Assisted by the other off-duty fireman, he continued the rescue operation, even 

though his training would make him very aware of the serious risk of the aircraft's fuel tanks exploding. There is no doubt that 

Sergeant Dolman's prompt and brave actions would have resulted in the live rescue of the aircrew had they not been killed 

instantly on- impact. 

This daring attempt at rescue showed superb courage. Sergeant Dolman placed the needs of others before his own safety in a 

situation inherently most dangerous. His bravery, outstanding sense of duty and splendid example were of the highest order. 

B.E.M. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division). (Second supplement to the L/G. 45549, 21 st December 1971, 

pp. 13961.) 

Jack Henry BROWN, Assistant Divisional Officer, City of Portsmouth Fire Brigade. 

Roy Edward GEER, Temporary Sub-Officer, City of Portsmouth Fire Brigade. 

Geoffrey READMAN, Fireman, City of Portsmouth Fire Brigade. 

Following a call for assistance to the Portsmouth City Fire Brigade, Assistant Divisional Officer Brown, with others went by naval 

tug to the m.v. Pacific Glory where there had been an explosion. After fighting the fire for about half-an-hour Assistant Divisional 

Officer Brown decided to attempt to board the Pacific Glory to search for missing crew members. 

All members of the party volunteered and Temporary Sub-Officer Geer and Fireman Readman were selected to accompany him. 

Assistant Divisional Officer Brown was the first to board the vessel and when he was satisfied that it was safe to continue he 

called the two volunteers aboard. Boarding the vessel was extremely difficult and hazardous as the deck of the Pacific Glory was 

30 feet above the deck of the tug with a 10 to 15 feet sea-swell which caused considerable movement of both vessels. When all 

three men were aboard a search for survivors was carried out in all parts which at that time were approachable, this necessitated 

passing over the top of the cargo tank which was on fire and also the tops of other cargo tanks, the plates of which were hot, 

buckled and showing signs of internal pressure. 

There was a large fire burning in and around the ship and the risk of further explosion was considerable. It is considered that the 

fire was tackled with great tenacity and that Assistant Divisional Officer Brown showed great courage, leadership and devotion to 

duty in the way in which he boarded the Pacific Glory and organised fire-fighting on the ship. He was ably supported by 

Temporary Sub-Officer Geer and Fireman Readman, who both volunteered to board the ship in spite of the difficult and very 

hazardous conditions. 

B.E.M. 


pp. 13963.) 

Raymond Terence CLEVERDON, Leading Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Thomas Leonard RICHARDS, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

William George WILLIS, Fireman, London Fire Brigade.' 

The Brigade was called to a fire at an hotel in Kensington Gardens Square on llth May 1971. Leading Fireman Cleverdon who 

was in charge of the first turntable to arrive, ordered the ladder to be placed at the rear of the building where he had been told 

people were trapped. With assistance from Fireman Richards he rescued a man and a woman who were trapped in a fourth floor 

room. 

Having heard cries from a third floor window during the rescue Leading Fireman Cleverdon returned up the extended ladder to the 

third floor, but a building projection prevented the ladder from reaching the window and the officer guided the ladder to the flat 

roof of the projection where he stepped off and found he was separated from the window, at which a man was standing, by a 

sloping parapet 2 foot wide with a drop below the window of 55 feet. It was learned that the man's wife was in the room 

unconscious. Leading Fireman Cleverdon climbed across the parapet, but realised that if he climbed into the room, from which 

fierce heat and smoke were emerging, it would be impossible to climb back with the man to the flat roof. 

He was joined by Fireman Richards and they leaned across the parapet and by grasping one of the man's arms hauled him to 

safety. Conditions were rapidly deteriorating and Leading Fireman Cleverdon attempted to get back in the room, but the earlier 

rescue work had sapped his strength so Fireman Richards went in alone and located the woman. He tried to drag her to safety but 

the heat was too great. 

By now fire was coming from the windows below and the fire in the room overlooking the roof was threatening to break the 

windows, a jet of water was directed on to both officers to protect them from the fire. They were joined by Fireman Willis in 

breathing apparatus who managed to lower himself into the room; he crossed the room but was driven back by flames when he 

tried to close the door, he found the woman and dragged her to the window and on to the roof. He was also by now almost 

exhausted and the lives of the four persons on the roof were preserved only by the water jet from the ground. 

Fireman Richards carried the woman down the ladder and the other two followed. It was later revealed that the only staircase to 

this part of the hotel was destroyed and the four people could not have been rescued other than by the method used. The 

unconscious woman was admitted to hospital. 

Without thought for their own personal safety, these officers displayed great courage and tenacity in extremely punishing 

conditions to carry out their daring rescue. 

129

B.E.M. 


pp. 13963.) 

Brian Louis GREENWOOD, Station Officer, Cornwall Fire Brigade. 

On 6th August 1971 a cloudburst in Truro caused the level of the two rivers flowing through the city to rise. The situation was 

worsened by the tidal Truro river being in full flood at the time. Before the downpour four employees of the South Western 

Electricity Board and two employees of the Cornwall River Authority were assisting in work adjacent to the entrance of the River 

Kenwyn tunnel which carries water from an open section of leats under the city and eventually discharges into the Truro River. 

The rain caused the level of water to rise sharply, its velocity was probably greater than usual because of the engineering work 

being carried out. The two River Board Authority men were washed down the tunnel where the Electricity Board men were 

already working, and because of the flood water could not get back to the tunnel entrance. A call for assistance was made to the 

fire brigade. 

Station Officer Greenwood and another officer who were visiting the flood areas were also directed to the incident. 

The Station Officer was the first on the scene and with the barest information took a 100 feet line, removed his fire boots and 

descended into the leat serving the tunnel. He was not sure of the conditions prevailing in the tunnel, its route or the location of 

the men, but partly swimming and wading he struggled through very fast flowing water, which varied between 4 feet 6 inches and 

5 feet 6 inches in depth, into the tunnel. Before he reached the men he had fully extended the line and was unable to indicate that 

he needed more. In spite of the surging water he detached himself from his line, fastened it to a fixing on the tunnel and went 

forward some distance to reach the men, he then assisted each man to a slightly safer position and, attached to the lifeline which 

now extended to 250 feet, Station Officer Greenwood and the rescued men were hauled against the water flow up to the tunnel 

entrance and assisted up the ladder. On three occasions during the rescue the officer had to remove his lifeline to put it on the 

trapped men to move them to safer positions. 

Station Officer Greenwood showed the utmost devotion to duty, a complete disregard for his personal safety and acted 

courageously in extremely hazardous and dangerous conditions in effecting the rescue of the six men. 

B.E.M. 


pp. 13963.) 

Colin John LIVETT, Leading Fireman (Temporary Sub-Officer), London Fire Brigade. 

Temporary Sub-Officer Livett was called to a fire at a private hotel in the early hours of 29 th June 1971. Fire fighting operations 

were already in progress at the front of the building so Temporary Sub-Officer Livett with two firemen went to check the back of 

the building where the fire had spread to rooms on the second and fourth floors. The adjoining buildings both had projecting 

sections; the second floor of each projection being an open verandah with pillars supporting the floor above. On climbing up to 

the verandah with the two firemen Sub-Officer Livett was told by three members of the Fire Brigade and a civilian on the opposite 

verandah that a man was trapped at a third floor window at the rear of the main building and that the room directly below him was 

alight. Before the arrival of the Fire Brigade a builder's ladder had been pitched almost horizontally from the verandah to the 

corner formed by the walls of the projection and the main building; the head of the ladder was partly jammed against some 

drainpipes and partly resting against the window-ledge of the burning room. 

Another builder's ladder was pitched vertically from the horizontal ladder to the window where the man was trapped, but because 

of the fire and heat emerging from the window immediately below and the precarious way in which the ladders were pitched he 

refused to come down. Sub-Officer Livett slid across to the other verandah by means of an extension ladder pitched across the 10 

foot gap between the two verandahs supported by only one string on his side and counter-weighted by two firemen on the other 

about 25 feet above the ground. He then walked out again on to the extension ladder and at full stretch he engaged a hook ladder 

on to the window-sill of the third floor room and though still some 8 feet away from the face of the main building he gripped the 

hook ladder and stepped off the extension ladder supported only by the hook and landed squarely on the face of the building. 

Temporary Sub-Officer Livett then climbed up the hook ladder to reach the room and was exposed to the fierce heat from the 

window below; a jet of water was aimed immediately below him to cut off the heat. He called to the man to climb out on to the 

hook ladder; the man was barefoot and on feeling the heat tried to climb back into the room, but Temporary Sub-Officer Livett 

caugh him and held him on to the ladder and started to climb down. It was impossible to regain the comparative safety of the 

extension ladder and he got the rescued man on to the builder's ladders and, assisted by another fireman, the man was passed round 

Temporary Sub-Officer Livett's body and the three of them straddled their way to safety. During the final stage of the rescue the 

ladder tipped and Temporary Sub-Officer Livett fell on to his back and suffered burns. The rescued man was detained in hospital. 

It was revealed later that no other escape route was possible, and the rescue was affected only by the combination of Temporary 

Sub-Officer Livett's technical skill, ingenuity, courage and complete disregard for his own safety. 

B.E.M. 


pp. 13964). 

Ronald Frederick PARKE, Leading Fireman, Sydenham, London, S.E.26. 

On 17th June 1971, Mr. Parke was crossing Vauxhall Bridge when he saw a young woman climb over the parapet on to an iron 

ladder leading to the jetty of one of the central buttresses. Mr. Parke asked a passerby to call the police and taking off his jacket 

went down to the jetty where the woman was kneeling. He was unable to restrain her and in spite of his pleas, she jumped into the 

river; Mr. Parke immediately removed his shoes and jumped in after her. The river was at ebb tide, with strong undercurrents and 

the water was very rough, but Mr. Parke managed to reach the woman and, in spite of her struggles, grasped her by her clothing 

130

and attempted to reach the small beach by Tintagel House. Because of the very strong tidal current he was carried past and 

decided to make for the Fire Brigade pontoon further along the river; though the strong crosscurrent and choppy water made it 

difficult for him to keep the woman from going under he retained his grip and had almost reached the pontoon when the Fire 

Brigade launch came out to him. Lifebelts were thrown and he managed to get one over the woman's head. When pulled from the 

water he had swum with the woman some 800 yards and was very exhausted. They were both taken to hospital. 

It is certain that without Mr. Parke's immediate acceptance of very grave personal risk, the woman would have drowned and in his 

determination to save her life he showed courage of a very high order. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Second supplement to the L/G. 45549, 21 st December 1971, pp. 13965.) 

Andrew John LEVENS, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Leslie William PHILLIPS, Constable, Metropolitan Police. 

For services when preventing a threatened suicide. 


C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L.G 45554, 1 st January 

1972, pp. 8.) 

William BABINGTON, Q F S M., Chief Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (L/G. 45554, 1 st January 1972, pp. 10.) 

Frederick John CAPRON, Q.F.S.M., Chief Officer, Warwickshire Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 


1972, pp.12.) 

Maurice ARMSTRONG, Chief Officer, Tynemouth Fire Brigade. 

Barrie Albert Walter MORTLEY, Q.F.S.M., Chief Officer, Flintshire Fire Brigade. 

Miss Ellen Marjorie SHELTON, Executive Officer Grade II, .London Fire Brigade. 

B.E.M. 


undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 45554, 1 st January 1972, pp .24.) 

British Empire Medal (Civil Division). 

Thomas Hedley COFFIELD, Station Officer, Durham Fire Brigade 

George Ernest DOUBLEDAY, Sub-Officer, Nottinghamshire Fire Brigade 

Colin Bird FALCONER, Station Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

Blenheim Charles FRY, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Miss Emma WEBB, Assistant Group Officer, Warley Fire Brigade 

Q.F.S.M. 

1st January 1972. 


to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 45554, 1 st January 1972, pp.29.) 



Frederick George LAPTHORN, Divisional Officer, Grade I, London Fire Brigade. 

Roger WILLEY, Assistant Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Frank Marshall LONGBONE, Chief Officer, Kingston upon Hull Fire Brigade. 

Fred STEPHENSON, Chief Officer, North Riding of Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

NORTHERN IRELAND. 

George Henry MURPHY, O.B E., Fire Force Commander, Northern Ireland Fire Authority. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the London Gazette, 45678, 

3 rd June 1972, pp. 6265) 

C.B.E. 

Harry LOMAS, Chief Officer, Manchester Fire Brigade. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the London Gazette, 45678, 3 rd 

June 1972, pp .6266) 

John STEWART, Q.F.S.M., Firemaster, Lanarkshire Fire Brigade. 

131

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the London Gazette, 45678, 3 rd 

June 1972, pp. 6266.) 

Dennis Clifford MITCHELL, Divisional Officer Grade II, Glamorgan Fire Brigade. 

Richard Johnson SEFTON, Assistant Divisional Officer, Belfast Fire Brigade. 

THE QUEEN has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the celebration of Her Majesty's Birthday, to approve the award 


British Empire Medal (Civil Division). (Supplement to the London Gazette, 45678, 3 rd June 1972, pp. 6283.) 

George James Ernest BIRD, Transport Inspecting Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Ernest Reginald Thomas CARTER, Station Officer, Somerset Fire Brigade. 

Albert John LONG, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Frank PHILLIPS, Assistant Divisional Officer, Swansea Fire Brigade. 

3rd June, 1972. 



Queen's Fire Service Medal. (Supplement to the London Gazette, 45678, 3 rd June 1972, pp. 6283/4.) 


Donald Robert BURRELL, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Neville Chilton MOUNTFORD, M.B.E., Chief Officer, Northamptonshire Fire Brigade. 

Arthur Thomas SENNETT, Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Harry SHELDON, Chief Officer, Chester Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND. 

David McMURTRIE, Deputy Firemaster (Divisional Officer Grade II), Perth and Kinross Fire Brigade. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G. 45754, 15 th August 1972, pp. 9934.) 

John William HARVEY, Leading Fireman, Suffolk, and Ipswich Fire Brigade. 

For services in preventing a mentally disturbed man from committing suicide. 

John O'HARE, Sub-Officer, Central Area Fire Brigade, Stirling. 

For rescuing two children from a blazing house. 


O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G 45860, 1 st January 

1973, pp. 10.) 

David Wheway DAVIES, M.B.E., Chief Officer, Denbighshire and Montgomeryshire Fire Brigade. 

Leonard DUNN, Q.F.S.M., Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G 45860, 1 st January 

1973, pp. 12.) 

Harry George ADAMS, lately Divisional Officer Grade I, East Sussex Fire Brigade. 

George DAWES, Chief Officer, York Fire Brigade. 

George Leslie TAYLOR,. Deputy Commandant, Fire . Service Technical College, Moreton-in-Marsh. 

B.E.M. 


undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G 45860, 1 st January 1973, pp. 24.) 

British Empire Medal (Civil Division) 

Robert ALLEN, Section Leader, Northern Ireland Fire Authority. 

Edward Clarence HEATH, Station Officer, Gloucestershire Fire Brigade. 

Charles John SWANTON, Technical Officer Grade I, Warden, Brigade Hostel, London Fire Brigade. 

1st January 1973 


to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G 45860, 1 st January 1973, pp.29.) 



Richard OSBORNE, lately Divisional, Officer, Grade III, London Fire Brigade. 

Roy Sydney BARNES, Chief Officer, Essex Fire Brigade. 

Arthur William BELL, Assistant Chief Officer (Deputy Chief Officer), Derbyshire Fire Brigade. 

Harold Johnson PORTER, Chief Officer, Cumberland Fire Brigade. 

William Joseph Tovey HUNT, Divisional Officer, Grade I, Suffolk and Ipswich Fire Brigade. ' 

132

B.E.M. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division) (Third Supplement to the L/G. 45911, 20 th February, pp. 

2356.) 

Robert James BLOOMER, Leading Fireman, Belfast Fire Brigade. 

For gallantry. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Third Supplement to the L/G. 45911, 20 th February 1973, pp. 2357.) 

David Joseph BROADBENT, Fireman, Oldham Fire Brigade. 

For services when rescuing an injured boy trapped in the base of the shaft of a dust extractor tower. 

Awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry (Civil Division) (Third Supplement to the L/G. 45911, 20 th February 1973, pp. 

2357.) 

John HARTEY, Station Officer, Manchester Fire Brigade. 

Leslie Gordon ROTHWELL, Fireman, Manchester Fire Brigade. 

For rescuing from drowning a driver who was trapped in the cabin of a dump truck which had overturned into a large lake. 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 45984, 2 nd June 

1973, pp.6480.) 

Peter Howard.DARBY, Q.F.S.M., Chief Officer, Lancashire Fire Brigade. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 45984, 2 nd June 1973, 

pp.6481.) 

Clifford- Douglas FORREST, Chief Officer, Leeds City Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 45984, 2 nd June 1973, 

pp.6487.) 

Dennis Charles KNIGHT, Assistant Chief Officer, Surrey Fire Brigade. 

Arthur Lambert SALE, Divisional Officer Grade I, London Fire Brigade. 

William Everett Stimpson WOOD, Divisional Officer Grade II, Fire Service Staff College. 

THE QUEEN has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration of Her Majesty's Birthday,to approve the award 

of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 45984, 2 nd June 1973, pp.6497.) 


Arthur Harry BECKLEY, Sub-Officer, Oxfordshire Fire Brigade. 

Francis Patrick HAYES, Section Leader, Northern Ireland Fire Authority. 

Marjorie Lilian, Mrs. HEALD, Leading Control Operator, Rotherham Fire Brigade. 

Patrick Michael HEGARTY, Station Officer, Belfast Fire Brigade. 

Thomas LEIGHTON, Sub-Officer, West Riding of Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

Miss Mary MORAN, Group Officer, South-Eastern Area Fire Brigade (Scotland). 

Alexander SWAN, Fireman, Belfast Fire Brigade. 

2nd June 1973 


of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 45984, 2 nd June 

1973, pp. 6503.) 



Harold GARLICK, Chief Officer, Oldham Fire Brigade. 

Dudley Raebum MARSDEN, B.E.M., lately Acting Chief Officer (Assistant Chief Officer), Devon and Torbay Fire Brigade. 

Samuel George MEALOR, Divisional Officer, Grade II, (Deputy Chief Officer), Birkenhead Fire Brigade. 


Robert MITCHELL, formerly Chief Officer, Belfast Fire Brigade, now Senior Course Director, Fire Service Staff College. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Second Supplement to the L/G, 46097, 9 th October 1973. pp. 11945.) 

Iain Reid BERMINGHAM (Deceased), Fireman, City of Glasgow Fire Service. 

Alastair CROFTS (Deceased), Leading Fireman, City of Glasgow Fire Service. 

Allan FINLAY (Deceased), Fireman, City of Glasgow Fire Service. 

William McLean HOOPER (Deceased), Fireman, City of Glasgow Fire Service. 

Duncan Arthur McCormack McMILLAN (Deceased), Fireman, City of Glasgow Fire Service. 

Brian MURRAY, Fireman, City of Glasgow Fire Service. 

Andrew Patrick QUINN (Deceased), Divisional Officer Grade III, City of Glasgow Fire Service. 

133

For services in fighting a fire which destroyed a warehouse in Glasgow. 


Thomas BRANNELLY, Sub-Officer, St. Helens Fire Brigade. 

Kevin HAMLET, Acting Leading Fireman, St. Helens Fire Brigade. 

For rescuing a young child from a burning house. 


John Stephen FARMER, Leading Fireman, West Sussex Fire Brigade. 

For rescuing a driver and passenger from a blazing car. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Second Supplement to the L/G. 46156, 18 th December 1973, pp. 15035.) 

Adrian McGILL (Deceased), Sub-Officer, Glasgow Fire Brigade. 

For attempting to rescue a woman from a blazing tenement block. 


C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 46162, 1 st 

January 1974, pp. 7.) 

Harry JUDGE, Q.F.S.M., Commandant, Fire Service Technical College. 

M.B.E. 


1974, pp. 7) 

William Henry Leslie BROGDEN, Chief Fire Officer and Safety Engineer, British Leyland (United Kingdom) Ltd., Austin 

Morris Group, Cowley. 

Terence McCARTHY, Chief Officer, Warwickshire Fire Brigade. 


undermentioned. –(Supplement to the L/G. 46162, 1 st January 1974, pp. 25.) 

Jim Monnington BAKER, Sub-Officer, Herefordshire Fire Brigade. 

Peter Basil CARR, Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade 

Charles Francis CRAIG, Fireman, Belfast Fire Brigade. 

Gilbert John FRENCH, Sub-Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. 

Miss Anne Mary TEMPLE, Leading Firewoman, Carlisle Fire Brigade. 

Trevor John TEMPLE, Company Officer, Northern Ireland Fire Authority. 

Richard Kenneth WATHEN, Sub-Officer, Breconshire and Radnorshire Fire Brigade. 



to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 46162, 1 st January 1974, pp. 30.) 



Kenneth Lawrence HOLLAND, C B E, Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Fire Services 

Robert Alfred Walter FOUNTAIN, Divisional Officer, Grade I, London Fire Brigade. 

Cecil CAREY, B.E.M., Chief Fire Officer, Cambridgeshire and Isle of Ely Fire Brigade. 

Wilfred Ivanhoe RICHARDS, Assistant Divisional Officer, Hertfordshire Fire and Ambulance Brigade. 


George MORRISON, Chief Fire Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Whitehall, London S.W.I. 

30th January 1974. 

The QUEEN has been pleased by Warrant under Her Majesty's Royal Sign Manual bearing date the 25th January, to appoint 

Henry James Shayle, Esq., to be one of the Inspectors of Fire Services, with effect from 1st March 1974. (The L/G. 46202, 7 th 

February 1974, pp. 1647.) 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Second supplement to the L/G, 46271, 23 rd April 1974, pp, 5064.) 

Ernest John Edward ALLEN, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Michael John COOPER, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Robert Ian YOUNG, Leading Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

For services leading to the rescue of a hysterical man who had climbed 70 feet onto a sloping suspension girder on Tower Bridge. 


134


of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: — (Supplement to the L/G.46310, 15 th 

June 1974. pp.) 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order :— (Supplement to the L/G.46310, 15 th June 

1974. pp. 6800. 

George Henry MERRELL, Q.F.S.M, Chief Fire Officer, West Midlands Metropolitan County Fire Brigade. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : —( Supplement to the L/G.46310, 15 th June 

1974. pp. 6804.) 

Thomas Duncan JONES, Chief Fire Officer, Cornwall Fire Brigade. 

Duncan James Park WALKER, Chief Fire Officer, Durham County Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G.46310, 15 th June 

1974. pp. 6804. ) 

Arthur CLAYTON, Chief Fire and Security Officer, Grangemouth Chemicals Factory, B.P. Chemicals International Ltd. 

(Supplement to the L/G.46310, 15 th . June 1974. pp. 6805). 

Thomas Adam LEWIS, Deputy Firemaster, Fife Fire Brigade. 

Ernest George PEARCE, Deputy Assistant Chief Fire Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Frederick Charles PONSFORD, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Avon Fire Brigade. 


of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G.46310, 15 th June 1974. pp. 6817. ) 

B.E.M. 



Jean, Mrs. BINNS, Senior Leading Firewoman, Greater Manchester Fire Brigade. 

Thomas CHESWORTH, Sub-Officer, Cheshire Fire Brigade. 

Arthur Lindsay GRAY, Sub-Officer, East Sussex Fire Brigade. 

George Raymond KILBURN, Leading Fireman, West Midlands Fire Brigade. 

Victor Henry SPENCE, Station Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 



of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned:—(Supplement to the L/G.46310, 15 th June 

1974. pp. 6822/3.) 



Norman ROSE, Deputy Assistant Chief Fire Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Kenneth LOCKYER, Chief Fire Officer, Leicestershire Fire Brigade. 

Kevin HORAN, Chief Fire Officer, West Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

Arthur William Leonard HOWES, Divisional Officer, Grade I (Deputy Chief Officer), Gwynedd Fire Brigade 

SCOTLAND 

Alfred JONES, F.I. Fire E, Firemaster, Angus Area Fire Brigade. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. ( Third Supplement to the L/G. 46329, 18 th June 1974, pp. 7128.) 

Raymond GOODAL, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

For rescuing a workman who was trapped following the collapse of the 25 feet deep trench in which he was working. 

Murdo MaCDONALD, Fireman, Lanarkshire Fire Brigade. 

Archibald STRANG, Sub-Officer, Lanarkshire Fire Brigade. 

For rescuing a badly injured boy who had fallen into a sewer. 


The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to give orders for the following awards of the George Medal and the Queen's 

Gallantly Medal and for publication in the London Gazette of the names of those specially shown below as having received an 

expression of Commendation for Brave Conduct. The Q.G.M. reference refers to awards granted to police officers at other 

incidents. (Third Supplement to the L/G. 46435, 17 th December 1974, pp. 12883.) 

Awarded the George Medal. 

John COLLEY, Leading Fireman, Devon Fire Brigade. 

In the early hours of the morning the Devon Fire Brigade answered a call to a fire at a three-storey guesthouse where it was 

reported that a number of people were trapped on the top floor. The ground floor and the first floor were on fire and flames were 

135

licking at the face of the building. A fire escape was pitched immediately to the second floor and a breathing apparatus team made 

an attempt to gain access to the upper floor by the main staircase, but were unsuccessful. 

A covering jet of water was played over the first and second floor windows to protect the escape from the flames and as the escape 

was pitched to a top-storey bedroom window cries for help were heard from the trapped people. By this time the head of the 

escape was enveloped in thick smoke and threatened by flames, but Leading Fireman Colley, without breathing apparatus, reached 

the level of a narrow window to the room and assisted a man to escape. Although by this time the fire was spreading rapidly and 

the heat and smoke were intensifying, he returned to the head of the ladder and rescued a girl. Leading Fireman Colley then went 

back again to rescue the third person who was known to be trapped in the room. 

By this time the whole of the first floor of the building was incandescent and the floor of the top-storey was seen to be glowing 

with heat and cracking. The officer managed to locate the man who was unconscious and trapped. After releasing the man he 

tried to drag him towards the window, but was overcome by heat and smoke and forced to leave the room. Personnel equipped 

with breathing apparatus then tried to gain access, but were unsuccessful because of the narrowness of the window. Despite the 

deteriorating situation and in full knowledge of the dangers that awaited him, Leading Fireman Colley decided to make yet another 

attempt to rescue the man. After persistent and determined efforts, he managed to drag the victim towards the window and to 

manoeuvre him on to the back of another fireman waiting at the head of the escape. The Leading Fireman did not leave the 

building until after the carry-down had begun. 

With a complete disregard for his own safety, Leading Fireman Colley displayed courage of the highest order in an extremely 

hazardous situation. He played a vital role in the rescue of two persons and was solely responsible for saving a third at great risk 

to his own life. 


No entries of operational interest found. 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 46444, 1 st 

January 1975, pp.9.) 

Joseph MILNER, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 46444, 1 st January 

1975, pp.9.) 

John Campbell MAXWELL, D.F.C, Chief Fire Officer, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

M.B.E. 


1975, pp. 16.) 

Walter MORROD, Senior Divisional Officer, Salop Fire Brigade. 

Arthur Frederick Stanley PERKS, Chief Fire Officer, Isle of Wight Fire Brigade. 


undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 46444, 1 st January 1975, pp. 25.) 


Betty Doreen, Mrs. DURRANT, Leading Firewoman, Norfolk Fire Brigade. 

John Hugh Lewis OWEN, Sub-Officer, Dyfed Fire Brigade. 

Joseph THOMPSON, Sub-Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Francis Henry WEAVER, Sub-Officer, Warwickshire Fire Brigade. 



to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 46444, 1 st January 1975, pp. 32.) 



Thomas Owen BURN, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Staffordshire Fire Brigade. 

Robert George CRICK, Divisional Officer, Grade I, London Fire Brigade. 

Sidney Burton JOWETT, M.B.E., Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Derbyshire Fire Brigade. 

Patrick WATTERS, Chief Fire Officer, Tyne and Wear Fire Brigade. 

Cecil William LAMBERT, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Merseyside Fire Brigade. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct : (Supplement to the London Gazette, 46591, 6 th June 1975, pp. 7286.) 

Bryn Leonard CUFFE, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Sydney Thomas LANE, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

John Patrick McCABE, Leading Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Kenneth James PORTER, Boiler Maker, Messrs. Cubow Ltd., London S.E.18. 

For attempting to rescue an injured steeplejack from a disused chimney stack. 

136

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order . Supplement to the L/G. 46593, 14 th June 

1975, pp. 7376.) 

George Patrick COOPER, Q.F.S.M., lately Firemaster, City of Glasgow Fire Service. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : Supplement to the L/G. 46593, 14 th June 1975, 

pp. 7378. 

James Maul FLEMMING, B E M., Chief Fire Officer, Hertfordshire Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : 

John HIGGINBOTHAM, Divisional Officer, Grade II, London Fire Brigade. (Supplement to the L/G. 46593, 14 th June 1975, 

pp. 7383.) 

James Bradley McGUINNESS, Airport Fire Officer, Northern Ireland Airports Ltd. 

John MACLEOD, Station Officer, Northern Area Fire Brigade, Stornoway. 

Alfred James PINNINGTON, lately Legal Adviser, Fire Services National Benevolent Fund. 

Frank William WALLACE, Senior Divisional Officer, Greater Manchester Fire Brigade. 


of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 46593, 14 th June 1975, pp. 7393). 


William George CUMMINGS, Leading Fireman, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Richard Mark FURLONG, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

John JOHNSON, Sub-Officer, Cumbria Fire Brigade. 

Victor William MASKELL, Senior Fireman, Central Services Group (Central Premises), British Broadcasting Corporation. 

John Marshall MATTHEWS, Sub-Officer, Slamannan Fire Station, Central Area Fire Brigade 

Charles Henry TILLEY, Sub-Officer, Cleveland Fire Brigade. 



of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned : 

Queen's Fire Service Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 46593, 14 th. June 1975, pp. 7399). 


Arthur Edward NICHOLLS, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Frank PEEL, M.M., Assistant Chief Fire Officer, South Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

Herbert Evangelo CUSHING, Assistant Chief Fire Officer (Deputy Chief Fire Officer), Kent Fire Brigade. A superb A.C.O. and 

later D.C.O. Respected and admired by all who worked with him. Ex Grenadier Guards, he fought his way across Europe in 

W.W.II.. Truly, an officer and gentleman. Brother of Peter Cushing, renowned actor, and of similar aristocratic appearance.) 

Basil ROBERTS, Chief Fire Officer, Dorset Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND 

Alexander MASSON, lately Firemaster, Perth and Kinross Area Fire Brigade. 


C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. (Supplement to the L.G: 46777, 1 st January 

1976, pp. 8.) 

Archibald Anderson WINNING, Chief Fire Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L.G:46777, 1 st January 

1976, pp. 10.) 

Kenneth Charles BRIDGES, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, Berkshire Fire Brigade. 

Eric William MACINTYRE, Q.F.S.M., Firemaster, Northern Area Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L.G:46777, 1 st January 

1976, pp. 10.) 

James Ernest Skidmore BRADBURY, Station Officer, Gwynedd Fire Brigade. 

B.E.M. 


undermentioned: (Supplement to the L.G: 46777, 1 st January 1976, pp. 26.) 

Miss Dorothy May GREEN, Senior Fire Control Operator, Essex Fire Brigade. 

137

Miss Elsie HARLAND, Leading Fire Control Operator, West Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

John Hector POWER, Sub-Officer, Hereford and Worcester Fire Brigade. 



to the undermentioned: — (Supplement to the L.G: 46777, 1 st January 1976, pp. 32.) 



James William Henry ARNOLD, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, West Midlands Fire Brigade. 

Richard John MORSE, Chief Fire Officer, South Glamorgan Fire Brigade. 

Harry BARDSLEY, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Lancashire Fire Brigade. 

Frederick John WESTERN, Chief Fire Officer, Norfolk Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal. (Third supplement to the L/G. 46827, 17 th February 1976, pp. 2429.) 

David Lee BLAIR, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Peter LIDBETTER, Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Ronald Robert MORRIS, Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Roger Stewart STEWART, Leading Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

A severe fire in a range of buildings which were used to house hotel staff spread rapidly up from the ground floor through the 

premises. On arrival the officer in charge found himself faced with a rescue operation of some magnitude. 

There were people trapped at all levels and a number were marooned on the roof. It was impossible at this stage to use a turntable 

ladder, so a 50 feet fire escape was used, but even when fully extended it reached only to a parapet below the roof. Leading 

Fireman Stewart mounted the extended escape carrying another ladder in an attempt to extend the height of the fire escape. The 

fire ladder was almost over the vertical as he raised it with the result that there was a grave risk that he would overbalance and fall 

to the ground. Fireman Blair also took an active part in this operation, assisting Leading Fireman Stewart in the positioning. He 

then climbed the ladder to the roof and calmed the people who were waiting to be rescued, thereby enabling Leading Fireman 

Stewart to lash the two ladders together and rescue seven people from the roof. This method of using a ladder is extremely 

dangerous and was made more so by people on the roof trying to use the ladder while it was still being positioned. 

After the initial rescues firefighting and search became a continuous process. The operation was carried out by inside access and 

then, because of the collapse of staircases, from outside with ladders. The roof and two floors later collapsed on to four firemen 

who had entered the building through a second storey window. The men were trapped by burning debris, bricks, heavy timbers 

and part of a wooden staircase which divided the room into two sections. The building was in an extremely unstable condition 

because a stone staircase had collapsed leaving a large void. 

Leading Fireman Stewart and two other firemen were ascending the ladder which the four trapped men had used when the collapse 

occurred. They entered the room and began clearing the debris and were also joined by Fireman Blair who assisted. All these 

men remained either in the room or on top of the ladder just outside for a period of 1½ hours until two men had been extricated. 

The whole operation was extremely difficult, since the window through which the officers were working developed a crack and 

the walls and chimney stack had a definite lean towards them. At one point Leading Fireman Stewart supported a beam on his 

shoulders whilst standing on a window-sill so that the trapped men could be freed. 

When the building collapsed Leading Fireman Lidbetter also went to investigate and found a man trapped beneath a beam. He and 

Sub-Officer Morris, who had joined him, removed a burning mattress from the chest and face of the trapped man. They worked in 

dark and smoky conditions with only a hand lamp for illumination while the fires burned unchecked around them. Their task was 

made more difficult because of the beam and a further collapse in the passage which brought down showers of burning embers. 

At this stage the conscious fireman told them that another man was trapped beneath him. As soon as enough debris had been 

cleared it was seen that a fireman was pinned face down by the same beam. The extrication of these two firemen took more than 

three hours and towards the end of the time several other personnel had to leave because of heat and smoke. Sub-Officer Morris 

remained until finally ordered to leave and Leading Fireman Lidbetter followed him shortly, both men being exhausted. 

Conditions in the building, due to the severity of the fire, were such that if human life had not been at risk, no fireman would have 

been allowed to enter. However, in spite of the danger involved all the firemen concerned displayed great bravery and entered 

without thought for their own safety. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Third supplement to the L/G. 46827, 17 th February 1976, pp. 2431.) 

Raymond John Hart CHILTON, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Eric William HALL, Leading Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Hamish Harry PETTIT (Deceased), Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Neil WALLINGTON, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

For services during a severe fire which swept through a range of buildings used to house hotel staff. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Third supplement to the L/G. 46827, 17 th February 1976, pp. 2432). 

Edwin Francis CLARK, Leading Fireman, Leicestershire Fire Brigade. 

For attempting to rescue a man who had fallen down a deep well. 

138


of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: . (Supplement to the L/G. 47085, 12 th 

June 1976, pp. 8045 ) 


Richard Armstrong THOMAS, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Joseph HENSHAW, Chief Fire Officer, Northumberland Fire Brigade. 

Bert William Charles THACKER, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Cleveland Fire Brigade. 

Alwin Ivor DOWER, Chief Fire Officer, Gwent Fire Brigade. 

Alfred BUTLER, Chief Fire Officer, Surrey Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND. 

James ANDERSON, F.I.Fire E., Firemaster, Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order . (Supplement to the L/G 46919, 12 th June 1976, 

pp. 8024.) 

Donald Robert BURRELL, Q.F.S.M., Deputy Chief Fire Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: 

James Henry HANNAFORD, Deputy Commandant, Fire Service Technical College 

William Joseph Edward MAWDITT, Assistant Divisional Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

Raymond MOORE, Station Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 




Ernest Gordon GARDNER, Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Robert George GEAGEN, Sub-Officer, Northamptonshire Fire Brigade. 

Victor Alexander McALLISTER, Sub-Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Stanley Ernest SURRY, Sub-Officer, Bedfordshire Fire Brigade 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Second supplement to the L/G 47027,!st October 1976, pp. 13307.) 

David DOLEMAN, Fireman, Northumberland Fire Brigade. 

Douglas LECK, Sub-Officer, Northumberland Fire Brigade. 

Ronald WINTRIP, Fireman, Northumberland Fire Brigade. 

For services leading to the rescue of a man who was trapped when his car was swept over a weir into deep water. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G. 47085, 7 th December 1976, pp. 7128.) 

Terence ALLISON, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

David John WILLIAMS, Inspector; Metropolitan Police Force. 

For services leading to the rescue of a mentally disturbed youth who threatened to jump from a bridge. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G.47102, 31 st December, 

1976, pp.12.) 

Ralph HAVERY, Chief Fire Officer, Devon Fire Brigade. 

Norman Stanley MARSH, lately Chief Fire Service Officer, Ministry of Defence. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G.47102, 31 st December 

1976, pp.15.) 

Alfred Joseph LUNNEY, Chief Fire Officer, Atomic Energy Research Establishment, Harwell. 

Samuel Collier MOORE, Assistant Chief Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

John Francis SMYTH, Divisional Officer (Grade II), Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 


undermentioned. (Supplement to the L/G.47102, 31 st December 1976, pp. 25.) 

Hubert George BALL, Sub-Officer, Gwent Fire Brigade. 

Brian Rowland Preston COUZENS, Sub-Officer, Powys Fire Brigade. 

James FORREST, lately Sub Officer, Moffat Fire Station. 

Raymond Sidney GILBERT, Sub-Officer, Dorset Fire Brigade. 

Irwin Cyril JEWELL, Sub-Officer, Berkshire Fire Brigade. 

Jack Scott NEVILLE, Sub-Officer, Staffordshire Fire Brigade. 

David Leslie PITHIE, Leading Fireman, West Midlands Fire Brigade. 

139

Shirley Gladys, Mrs. RUSSELL, Senior Fire Control Operator, Surrey Fire Brigade. 

Alwyne George THORPE, Sub-Officer, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

William Leslie Trevor SHELLARD, Fireman, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

31st December 1976 


to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G.47102, 31 st December 1976, pp. 32.) 



Arthur Charles TANNER, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

John MANN, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Mid Glamorgan Fire Brigade. 

Thomas LISTER, Chief Fire Officer, West Midlands Fire Brigade. 

George Henry MOORE, Chief Fire Officer, Lincolnshire Fire Brigade. 

Edward George McCROSSEN, Deputy Assistant Chief Fire Officer, London 'Fire Brigade. 


20th April 1977. 

The QUEEN has been pleased by Warrant under Her Majesty's Royal Sign Manual bearing date the 6th April 1977 to appoint 

Stanley Platt, Esq., to be an Inspector of Fire Services. (Supplement to the L/G. 47207, 20 th April 1977, pp. 5631.) 

C.B.E. 

To be Additional Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 47234, 11 th June 

1977, pp. 7089.) 

James HARGREAVES, lately Chairman, Association of Metropolitan Authorities Police and Fire Services Committee. 

George Edwin McCOY, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, South Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

Terence PARRY, O.B.E., General Secretary, Fire Brigades Union. For services to the Health and Safety Commission. 

O.B.E. 

To be Additional Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 47234, 11 th June 

1977, pp. 7090.) 

Albert Richard BRANNON, Chief Fire Officer, Cheshire Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Additional Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 47234, 11 th June 

1977, pp. 7093.) 

John James ABERNETHY, Divisional Officer Grade II, Cumbria Fire Brigade. 

William BEGGS, Divisional Officer Grade I, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Charles Robert William BELL, Divisional Officer Grade I, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

John Leonard BROCK, Assistant Inspector of Fire Services. 

Norman Douglas COOMBES, Divisional Officer Grade III, London Fire Brigade. 

THE QUEEN has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration of Her Majesty's Silver Jubilee and Birthday, to 

approve the award of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 47234, 11 th 

June 1977, pp. 7109.) 


Andrew Baird FERGUSON, Sub-Officer, Cove Fire Station, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

Stanley George HOOKS, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Ronald MAYALL, Sub Officer, West Midlands Fire Brigade. 

Michael John MURRAY, Sub-Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Agnes Gilmour Foley, Mrs. TRACEY, Senior Fire Control Operator, Fife Fire Brigade. 

Harry WARREN, Sub Officer, North Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

llth June 1977 

THE QUEEN has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration of Her Majesty's Silver Jubilee and Birthday, to 

approve the award of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the 

L/G. 47234, 11 th June 1977, pp. 7109.) 



Leslie Ernest JOHNSON, Chief Fire Officer, Somerset Fire Brigade. 

Melville Wilfred WILLIS, Chief Fire Officer,-Suffolk Fire Brigade. 

Robert Basil BLACKBURN, Chief Fire Officer, West Sussex Fire Brigade. - 

Ronald John Homer MILLER, Assistant Chief' Fire Officer (Chief Staff Officer), London Fire Brigade. 

Stanley, Ernest EDMUNDS:, Senior Divisional Officer, Nottinghamshire Fire Brigade. 

140

SCOTLAND. 

Richard James KNOWLTON, F.I.Fire E., Firemaster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Fifth supplement to the L/G. 47339, 5 th December 1977, pp. 15241.) 

For services leading to the rescue of members of the public from a fire which engulfed a restaurant. 

David DADD, Fireman, Kent Fire Brigade. 

Kenneth James FAIRCHILD, Fireman, Kent Fire Brigade. 

James William HOGBEN, Fireman, Kent Fire Brigade. 

John SHARP (Deceased), Leading Fireman, Kent Fire Brigade. 

John died at the Crypt restaurant, in the early hours of the 27 th March 1967. The brigade arrived within 5 minutes of the initial 

call and many people were led to safety by the crews. John was searching the building as a member of a B.A. crew when, without 

warning, the building collapsed. Three firemen were buried. Two were quickly released by colleagues but it was about twenty 

minutes before John was located. Tragically, he was dead. Six firemen were taken to hospital. Three adults and three children 

perished in the fire and collapse of the building. 

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to give orders for the following awards of the Queen's Gallantry Medal and for the 

publication in the London Gazette of the names of those shown below as having received an expression of Commendation for 

Brave Conduct. 

Awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal (Supplement to the L/G. 47253, 24 th June 1977, pp. 8252.) 

Kenneth Ralph KAY, Fireman, Berkshire Fire Brigade. 

On 6th December 1976, the Berkshire Fire Brigade received a call from the Police for assistance with a car which was submerged 

in the River Thames. They were told that there were people inside, possibly children. Three appliances were sent to the scene and 

Fireman Kay and another Fireman immediately dived into the river and swam to the car which by this time had come to rest in 

about 10 feet of water 20 feet away from the bank. It was dark and the water was bitterly cold. 

In spite of the severe conditions the two men remained in the water and attempted to dive to the submerged vehicle, but due to the 

time it took to locate it and the intense cold, they were unable to stay submerged long enough to gain access to the car. Fireman 

Kay then swam back to the bank while the other officer remained in the water above the car. He put on a set of fire brigade 

breathing apparatus and again entered the water. He then dived to the car and found two unconscious women. He freed the first 

and brought her to the surface and, assisted by his colleague he swam with her to a nearby boat. The two men then returned and 

Fireman Kay dived again to the car extricated the second woman who was also brought to the surface and taken to the boat. Both 

officers returned to the car once more and Fireman Kay dived again to search for the children originally reported. He remained 

submerged long enough to make a complete search to ensure that no one else was in the car before swimming back to the bank. 

Both women were given artificial respiration and taken to hospital. Firemen are not trained for this type of rescue and the 

breathing apparatus used by Fireman Kay weighs approximately 40 Ibs. and is neither designed nor intended for sub-aqua work. 

But for his actions in conditions of extreme discomfort, hazard and difficulty the occupants of the car would undoubtedly have 

drowned. 

Fireman Kay displayed a high degree of gallantry, and tenacity in carrying out the operation in difficult and dangerous conditions 

which extended well beyond the normal call of duty. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G. 47253, 24 th June 1977, pp. 8252.) 

Richard Thomas PUGH, Sub-Officer, Powys Fire Brigade. 

For services connected with the attempted removal of a blazing fire appliance in an effort to avert the further spread of a forest 

fire. 

Robert Ivor Cleaton ROBERTS, Leading Fireman, Berkshire Fire Brigade. 

For services leading to the rescue of two unconscious women whose car had become submerged in a river. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G. 47353, 11 th October 1977, pp. 13108.) 

Harold Gary ROBERTS, Sub Officer, Salop Fire Brigade. 

For services leading to the rescue of a man who was trapped in his partly submerged canoe in a dangerous and fast flowing river. 


The QUEEN has been pleased by Warrant under Her Majesty's Royal Sign Manual bearing date the 14 th December 1977 to 

appoint Frederick Christopher Best, Esquire, to be an Inspector of Fire Services. (Supplement to the L/G 47416, 29 th December 

1977, pp. 16123). Previously an A.C.O .with Kent Fire Brigade. 



O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement the L/G. 47418, 31 st December 

1977, pp. 10.) New Year’s Honours list. 

Douglas Jeffrey BRUCE, Chief Fire Officer, Cleveland Fire Brigade. 

Alfred JONES, Q.F.S.M., Firemaster, Tayside Fire Brigade 

Hedley Brownrigg REID, Secretary, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Thomas Neville WATKINS, Chief Fire Officer, Derbyshire Fire Brigade. 

141

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the -said Most Excellent Order. (Supplement the L/G. 47418, 31 st December 

1977, pp. 15.) 

Frank HARRIS, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Essex Fire Brigade. 


undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G 47418, 31 st December 1977, pp. 25.) 


Thomas Ferguson Jamison BLAIR, lately Station Officer, Northern Ireland Airport Fire Service. 

Harold William GOODWIN, Sub Officer, Warwickshire Fire Brigade. 

Bernard Arthur MASTERS, Fireman, Merseyside Fire Brigade. 

Wesley ORR, Sub-Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

William Edward John RANN, Fireman, Isle of Wight Fire Brigade. 

Victor George RAWSON, Sub Officer, London Fire Brigade. 



to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G 47418, 31 st December 1977, pp. 32.) 



Charles William Frederick CLISBY, Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Reginald Arthur HALEY, Chief Fire Officer, Bedfordshire Fire Brigade. 

Thomas Eric EDWARDS, Chief Fire Officer, Gwynedd Fire Brigade. 

Owen James HOOKER, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Cornwall Fire Brigade. 

Robert PROSSER, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Greater Manchester Fire Brigade. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. (Supplement to the L/G, 47549, 3 rd . June 1978. 

pp. 6239.) 

Harold Johnson PORTER, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, Cumbria Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G, 47549, 3 rd June 1978. 

pp. 6329.) 

John Arthur MATTHEWS, Divisional Officer Grade III, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

John William PLEASANTS, Divisional Officer Grade II, Cambridgeshire Fire Brigade. 

John WATERSON, lately Assistant Firemaster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade 


of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G, 47549, 3 rd June 1978, pp. 6252.) 

William COUPLAND, Sub Officer, Dumfries and Galloway Fire Brigade. 

Reginald James HAMMETT, Sub-Officer, Devon Fire Brigade. 

Donald JONES, Sub Officer, Clwyd Fire Brigade. 

John Joseph McPARLAND, Sub-Officer, Fire Authority Northern Ireland. 

Roy Samuel James PARROTT, Sub-Officer, Humberside Fire Brigade. 

Queen's Fire Service Medal. (Supplement to the L/G, 47549, 3 rd June 1978. pp. 6259.) 


Norman Francis ROUNDELL, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Peter ROBINSON, Divisional Officer Grade 1, Buckinghamshire Fire Brigade. 

.Andrew Noel LIGHTBODY, Assistant Chief Officer, Cheshire Fire Brigade. 

Robert OWENS, Assistant Chief Officer, Merseyside Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND. 

Philip Stuart MORRISON, M.B.E., Firemaster, Central Region Fire Brigade. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. Supplement to the L/G, 47582, 3 rd . July 1978. pp. 8047. 

Peter John HOLLANDS, Divisional Officer (Grade 1), Royal Berkshire Fire Brigade. 

Kenneth Edward REED, Station Officer, Royal Berkshire Fire Brigade. 

For services leading to the rescue of a colleague, who was trapped beneath the wreckage of a burning building. 

12th September 1978. (Supplement to the L/G, 47639, 15 th September 1978. pp. 11029.) 

THE QUEEN has been pleased by Warrant under Her Majesty's Royal Sign Manual bearing date the 5th September 1978 to 

appoint Tom Greenwood, Esquire, to be an Inspector of Fire Services. 

142

12th September 1978. 


appoint Eric Ronald May, Esquire, to be an Inspector of Fire Services. Supplement to the L/G, 247639, 15 th September 1978, pp. 

11029. 

Previously D.C.O. with Kent Fire Brigade. During the war he served as a Telegrapher/Air Gunner in Swordfish aircraft. In 2009 

he visited the K.F.R.S. Museum with three Canadians – friends he had first met whilst undertaking flying training in Canada 

during the war! His son joined the Kent F.B as a Junior Fireman and reached the rank of S.D.O. 


appoint Tom Greenwood, Esquire, to be an Inspector of Fire Services. (Supplement to the L/G, 47639, 15 th September 1978, pp 

11029.) 

8th November 1978. 

The QUEEN has been pleased by Warrant under Her Majesty's Royal Sign Manual bearing date the 2nd November 

1978 to appoint Robert Scott Clark, Esquire, to be an Inspector of Fire Services on and from the 2nd January 1979. (The L/G 

47688, 14 th November 1978, pp. 13626.) 



C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 47723, 30 th 

December 1978, pp. 8.) (New Year’s Honours Awards). 

James ANDERSON, Q.F.S.M., Firemaster, Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade. 

Kevin HORAN, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, West Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 47723, 30 th December 

1978, pp. 9. (New Year’s Honours Awards). 

Alfred BUTLER, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, Surrey Fire Brigade. 

Glyndwr Kenneth LOCKYER, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, Leicestershire Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order; (Supplement to the L/G. 47723, 30 th December 

1978, pp. 9). (New Year’s Honours Awards). 

Eric Alfred BELLARS, Fire Service Officer I, Hong Kong, Ministry of Defence. 

Trevor HARRIES, lately Divisional Officer Grade I, West Glamorgan Fire Brigade. 

Miss Mabel Alice LARKIN, B.E.M., Principal Fire Control Officer, Lancashire Fire Brigade. 


undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 47723, 30 th December 1978, pp. 24). 

British Empire Medal (Civil Division). (New Year’s Honours Awards). 

William BECK, Sub-Officer, Derbyshire Fire Brigade. 

Lachlan MACLEAN, Sub-Officer, Northern Fire Brigade. 

David Albert ROGERS, Leading Fireman, Avon Fire Brigade. 

Kenneth William TALBOT, Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Robert Norman WRIGHT, Sub-Officer, Essex Fire Brigade. 


THE QUEEN has teen graciously pleased to approve the award of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to 

the undermentioned. (Supplement to the L/G. 47723, 30 th December 1978, pp. 31). (New Year’s Honours Awards). 



John Edgar BALDWIN, Divisional Officer Grade I, Northamptonshire Fire Brigade. 

Clifford George COLENUTT, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Leslie Harold CUMMINS, Assistant Chief Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

John James KILLORAN, Chief Fire Officer, Devon Fire Brigade. 

Richard John SUMNER, Assistant Chief Officer, West Midlands Fire Brigade. 

16th June 1979. 

THE QUEEN has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration of Her Majesty's Birthday, to approve the 

award of the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G 47869, 16 th 

June 1979, pp. 17.) 



Ronald BORROWS, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

143

Sidney RANKIN, Chief Fire Officer, Merseyside Fire Brigade. 

John WARDEN, B.E.M., Chief Fire Officer, Lancashire Fire Brigade. 

Eric Harvey WHITAKER, Chief Fire Officer, East Sussex Fire Brigade. 

Herbert Stanley WHITTAKER, Assistant Chief Officer (Deputy Chief Officer), Greater Manchester Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND. 

Raymond Frederick HOLLAND-THOMAS, Firemaster, Dumfries and Galloway Fire Brigade 

. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L.G. 48041, 1 st December 

1979, pp.7.) 

Frederick Morphet WATSON, Q.F.S.M., Director of Fire Services, Hong Kong. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L.G. 48041, 1 st December 

1979 



to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L.G. 48041, 1 st December 1979, pp. 15.) 



Alan John ARCHER, Chief Fire Officer, Buckinghamshire Fire Brigade. 

Ronald Alfred BULLERS, Chief Fire Officer, Greater Manchester Fire Brigade. 

Thomas Frederick ELTON, Chief Fire Officer, Durham Fire Brigade. 

Kenneth HARDEN, B.E.M., Chief Fire Officer, Gloucestershire Fire Brigade. 

Royston Herbert Edward MASON, Divisional Officer Grade I, Humberside Fire Brigade. 

Gordon John STRINGER, Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 


C.B.E. (To be dated 31st December 1979). 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 48059, 8 th 

January, 1980, pp. 289.) 

Reginald Derek Henry DOYLE, Chief Fire Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. (Later, Sir Reginald Doyle and Her Majesty‘s Chief 

Inspector of Fire Services.) 

O.B.E. (To be dated 31st December 1979). 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 48059, 8 th January 

1980, pp. 290.) 

Douglas ANDREWS, Principal Professional and Technology Officer (Fire), Department of the Environment 

Norman Frank RICHARDS, M.B.E., Q.F.S.M., H.M. Inspector of Fire Services, Grade I, Fire Service Inspectorate. 

M.B.E. (To be dated 31st December 1979) 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 48059, 8 th January 

1980, pp. 294). 

Derek John EDWARDS, Divisional Officer Grade I, London Fire Brigade. 

James FORBES, Senior Divisional Officer, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

Alan John HAMMOND, Station Officer, Norfolk Fire Brigade. 

Samuel Henry GUNNING, lately Divisional Officer II, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

8th January 1980 


undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G.48059, 8 th. January 1980, pp. 299.) 

B.E.M. 


(To be dated 31st December 1979). 

Albert Edward BANKS, Social and Welfare Officer, Civilian Grade, West Midands Fire Brigade. 

Mostyn John COLLINS, Sub-Officer, South Glamorgan Fire Brigade. 

Morris GILLILAND, Fireman, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Gordon Maston GUNNER, lately Fire Master, B.P. Oil Kent Refinery Ltd. (An honorary Divisional Officer of Kent Fire Brigade). 

Grace McArthur McPhee, Mrs. JEFFREY, Senior Fire Control Operator, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

John Charles PHELAN, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Victor George WEBB, Leading Fireman, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

144

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct: (Supplement to the L/G. 48143, 28 th March 1980, pp. 4793.) 

Ronald William GOODWIN, Lately Division Officer, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

David John Percy RAYNER, Station Officer, Cambridge Fire and Rescue Service. 

For services in attempting to rescue a woman and her three children who were trapped in their fiercely blazing home. 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 48212, 14 th June 

1980, pp.9.) 

George MORRISON, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 48212, 14 th June 1980, 

pp. 10.) 

Thomas Martin BRANNAN, Chairman, Fire and Emergency Planning Committee, Association of County Councils. 

William Frank DANCEY, Chief Fire Officer, West Glamorgan Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 48212, 14 th June 1980, 

pp. 14) 

James FORBES, Senior Divisional Officer, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

Jeffrey Brian GUYTON, Assistant Chief Officer, Hertfordshire Fire Brigade. 

John KNOX, Divisional Commander, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Miss Maureen McLOUGHLIN, B.E.M., Divisional Officer Grade I, Greater Manchester Fire Brigade. 

David NICOLL, Deputy Firemaster, Tayside Fire Brigade. 

B.E.M. 




Alan BURNS, Sub Officer, Northumberland Fire Brigade. 

George Frederick Henry BUSHELL, Leading Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Denis John Frederick KEELING, Sub-Officer, Nottinghamshire Fire Brigade. 

George Stanley Austen SODEAUX, Sub-Officer, Suffolk Fire Brigade. 

Joseph Anderson STEAD, Sub-Officer, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 




Queen's Fire Service Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 48212, 14 th June 1980, pp 30.) 


Eric Arthur BROWN, Assistant Chief Officer, West Midlands Fire Service. 

Michael John DOHERTY, Chief Staff Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Norman William Gerald LANGLEY, Assistant Chief Officer, Cumbria Fire Brigade. 

John Campbell MAXWELL, O.B.E., D.F.C., Deputy Commandant/Senior Course Director, Fire Service Staff College. 

Dennis Frederick ROBINS, Chief Fire Officer, Wiltshire Fire Brigade. 

Robert Henry RUSSELL, Chief Fire Officer, Salop Fire Brigade. 

Arthur STEEL, Chief Fire Officer, Northamptonshire Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND. 

William HARPER, Deputy Firemaster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

3rd October 1980. 

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the following awards of the Queen's Gallantry Medal and for the 

publication hi the London Gazette of the names of those shown below as having received an expression of Commendation for 

Brave Conduct. (The London Gazette 48327, 3 rd October 1980, pp. 13802.) 

Q.G.M. 

Awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal. 

William JOLLEY, Station Officer, Greater Manchester County Fire Service. 

On 8th May 1979 the Greater Manchester County Fire Service were called to a serious fire at a large store. On arrival at the scene 

it was evident that the fire had taken hold in a very short time and flames accompanied by a large volume of smoke were billowing 

from the second floor windows, while at the rear of the premises smoke was issuing from the windows, many people were caught 

on various floors and several women could be seen trapped behind bars at a second floor window. 

A ladder was placed at the barred window and Station Officer Jolley climbed up and attempted to remove the iron bars by using a 

large axe on the masonry. When this proved unsuccessful, he cut through two of the bars with a compressed air saw and levered 

them upwards sufficiently to gain access. Despite the seriousness and intensity of the fire, Station Officer Jolley entered the 

145

uilding taking with him only a resuscitator set in order to provide some swift temporary relief to the six women he was 

attempting to rescue. 

The smoke-logged room was by now filled by poisonous fumes and the women had great difficulty in breathing. The officer 

managed to calm and reassure them and was able to assist them on to the ladder and to a hydraulic platform cage which had then 

been positioned close to the ladder. When the last woman had been removed to safety the Station Officer returned to the room to 

make sure that there was no-one else remaining. He decided to search further and opened the door of the general office giving 

access to the second floor shopping area which was by then burning fiercely. 

Crawling along the floor, he attempted to penetrate further but this proved impossible because of the heat, flames and smoke in the 

area. Before withdrawing, the officer waited and called several times in case there were any customers or staff still trapped, but no 

answer was given and nothing could be seen through the fire and dense blanket of smoke. Finally, when he was satisfied that he 

could give no further assistance and now severely affected by the effects of the heat and fumes he was forced to use the 

resuscitator himself before making his way back to the window. 

Station Officer Jolley displayed bravery of a high order when, without the support of other personnel and at risk to his own safety 

he rescued the six trapped women and then, although suffering from the effect of heat and smoke, continued to search for other 

survivors. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (The London Gazette 48327, 3 rd October 1980, pp. 13803.) 

Kenneth PRICE, Fireman, Gwent Fire Brigade. 

For services leading to the rescue of a woman whose car had been swept from a bridge into the fast flowing waters of a flooded 

river. 




THE QUEEN has been graciously pleased to signify her intention of conferring the Honour of Knighthood upon the 

undermentioned: (Supplement to The London Gazette 48467, 31 st December 1980, pp. 2.) 

Knights Bachelor. 

Kenneth Lawrence HOLLAND, C.B.E., Q.F.S.M., H.M. Chief Inspector of Fire Services. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers oj the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G, 48639, 13 th June 1981, 

pp. 9.) 

Arthur Edward NICHOLLS, Q.F.S.M., Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Peter George ROBINSON, H.M. Inspector of Fire Services Grade I, Home Office Fire Services Inspectorate. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G, 48639, 13 th June 1981, 

pp.9.) 

Dennis HOLLAND, Deputy Commandant, Fire Service Technical College. 

George Leslie SCOTT, Principal Fire Control Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Sonia May, Mrs. WAIN, Fire Control Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. 


of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G, 48639, 13 th June 1981, pp.23./26) 


B.E.M. 

Thomas Henry Victor BAILIE, Sub Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Robert DENVER, Sub-Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Walter FAULDER, Sub Officer, Cumbria Fire Brigade. 

Michael Arthur Fredrick GREEN, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

George William JOHNSTON, Fireman, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Robert John SHAW, Sub Officer, Clwyd Fire Brigade. 

Q.F.S.M. 

Queen's Fire Service Medal. (Supplement to the L/G, 48639, 13 th June 1981, pp. 29.) 


Jeffrey Harry BRERETON, lately Assistant Chief Officer, Staffordshire Fire Brigade. 

John William BROWNING, Assistant Chief Officer, Somerset Fire Brigade. 

Malcolm James MACE, Chief Fire Officer, South Glamorgan Fire Brigade. 

Valentine Condliff QUINE, Assistant Chief Officer, Merseyside Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND. 

SHAND, Firemaster, Northern Fire Brigade. 

146

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 48837, 31 st December 

1981, pp. 9.) 

Robert Basil BLACKBURN, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, West Sussex Fire Brigade. 

Miss Clare MACMAHON, lately Chairman, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 48837, 31 st December 

1981, pp. 13.) 

James CUMMINGS, Deputy Chief Officer, Northamptonshire Fire Brigade. 

Thomas Graden DOUGLAS, Senior Divisional Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Christopher George DURRANT, Assistant Chief Officer, Oxfordshire Fire Brigade. 

John Hamilton HARLEY, Senior Fire Service Administration Officer, Central Region Fire Brigade. 

B.E.M. 


undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 48837, 31 st December 1981, pp 23.) 

British Empire Medal (Civil Division.) 

Charles Jack EDWARDS, Fitter, Fire Service Staff College, Dorking, Home Office. 

Donald William JAMES, Sub-Officer, Hereford and Worcester Fire Brigade. 

George JOHNSON, Sub-Officer, Wiltshire Fire Brigade. 

Edward HIGGINS, Sub-Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade 

William McKINLEY, Sub-Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Herbert MOUNTAIN, Sub-Officer, Helmsley Fire Station, North Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

Peter John NEW, Sub-Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. 


THE QUEEN has been, graciously pleased to approve the award of The Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service 

to the undermentioned. (Supplement to the L/G. 48837, 31 st December 1981, pp 28.) 



Dennis BAKER, Assistant Chief Officer, West Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

Edward Arthur HARRINGTON, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Andrew Bruce Campbell HOGG, Chief Officer, Norfolk Fire Brigade. 

Henry Arthur JONES, Chief Officer, South Yorkshire County Fire Service. 

JERSEY 

William MAHONEY, Chief Officer, States of Jersey Fire Service. 


Awarded the Queen’s Gallantry Medal. (Supplement to the L/G 48918, 12 th . March 1982, pp 3492.) 

Kevin Michael Mark WALSH, Station Officer, Suffolk Fire Service. 

On 26th June 1981, a serious fire broke out in the first floor bedroom of a dwelling house. The fire brigade was called and 

although Station Officer Walsh had officially finished duty, he was standing in as Operational Duty Officer for a colleague. He 

was, therefore, notified of the incident at his home and as he lived in close proximity, he reached the address within one minute of 

being called. On arrival at the scene he was told that two small boys were trapped in the bedroom. The officer was well in 

advance of the fire appliances and was alone, without the protection of breathing apparatus and well aware from training and 

experience of the risk involved. 

Nonetheless, he immediately went upstairs, entering and searching first one room and then another to rescue the children. The fire 

had taken a firm hold and the heat, smoke and fumes were intense, but ignoring this he crawled into the room and found a child. 

He returned downstairs, saw the child needed assistance to ventilate the lungs and quickly gave mouth to mouth resuscitation 

before handing it into the care of a police officer who had also arrived at the house. 

He then quickly returned to the room where the situation had deteriorated further due to an increase in smoke and fumes. He again 

entered by crawling on his stomach and, as the visibility was nil, found the second boy by touch. He managed to carry the child 

downstairs where he could see it had stopped breathing; he immediately started mouth to mouth resuscitation and the child quickly 

responded. 

Station Officer Walsh displayed gallantry and devotion to duty of a high order when, without the aid of breathing apparatus or the 

support of other fire appliances, he rescued these children. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G 48918, 12 th . March 1982, pp 3492.) 

Peter Richard BOAM, Fireman, Lincolnshire Fire Brigade. 

For services leading to the rescue of a colleague who was stunned by the blast from an explosion during a fierce fire in the oil and 

paint store of a ship. 

147

Awarded The Queen's Gallantry Medal. (Supplement to the L/G 49119, 24 th September 1982, pp. 12411). (Not a rescue by a 

local authority firefighter but included as a reminder that there are other firefighting organistions in the U.K .- different cap 

badge – same job) 

Robert Kenneth Louis WICKENS, Fireman, Royal Aircraft Establishment, Bedford, Ministry of Defence. 

On 7th January 1982, an aircraft approaching to land, crashed inverted and caught fire on the runway. The Navigator, with severe 

head injuries and bleeding profusely, was hanging upside down from his harness and trapped in his seat in the cockpit. His rocket 

powered ejection seat was still live and could have been fired by any accidental mishandling of the controls or by movement of the 

seat along its rails. Fuel was leaking from the aircraft and the foam that had doused the initial fire had frozen. Fireman Wickens, 

who was the driver of the foam tender that was called to the scene, discovered the trapped Navigator. Realising the danger, his 

first thought was to make the ejector seat safe; he crawled under the wreck but structural distortion, the aircraft's attitude and the 

man's position prevented this. 

Fireman Wickens remained to comfort the injured man and ensured that the seat did not move whilst the aircraft was lifted. He 

then entered the cockpit, cut the Navigator free and, assisted by three colleagues, lowered him to a stretcher. Throughout the 

rescue, which was carried out in dark, freezing and wet conditions, activation of the rockets would have crushed him to death and 

ignited the spilt fuel. Fireman Wickens displayed courage and devotion to duty of a very high order when, in his determination to 

save the life of the trapped and seriously injured Navigator, he worked in appalling and dangerous conditions with a complete 

disregard for his own safety. 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: 

Richard James KNOWLTON, Q.F.S.M., Firemaster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. (Supplement to the L/G. 49212, 31 st December 

1992, pp.8) 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. ( Supplement to the L/G. 49212, 31 st December 

1982, pp. 10./11) 

David DICK, Chairman, Fire Services Examination Board (Scotland). 

Richard John MORSE, Q.F.S.M., Chief Officer, West Glamorgan Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 49212, 31 st December 

1982, pp. 14./16.) 

Walter Mansfield KITCHEN, Divisional Officer I, London Fire Brigade. 

Miss Emma WEBB, B.E.M., Principal Fire Control Officer, West Midlands Fire Brigade. 


undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 49212, 31 st December 1982, pp. 23/25/26.) 


Roger BECK, Fireman, Derbyshire Fire Service. 

Ivor Gordon DODD, Sub Officer, Cornwall County Fire Brigade. 

Alfred CHAPPORY, Sub-Officer, Fire Section, Ministry of Defence. 

John Timothy MORIARTY, Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Clifford Charles POCKNELL, Sub-Officer, Hereford and Worcester Fire Brigade. 

Kenneth PRATT, Sub-Officer, Devon Fire Brigade. 

Arthur Richard WOOLLEY, lately Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 


THE QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the award of The Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service 

to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 49212, 31 st December 1982, pp. 28.) 



Harold Robert Charles BOYCE, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Bryan Thomas Alfred COLLINS, Chief Officer, Humberside Fire Brigade. 

Edward Spencer FAULKNER, Chief Officer, Hertfordshire Fire Brigade. 

Gordon Frank Henry MITCHELL, Chief Officer, Army Fire Service. 

Roger Carlton PARAMOR, Chief Officer, Essex County Fire Brigade. 

John SPENCE, Chief Officer, Warwickshire County Fire Service. 


15th April 1983 



Brave Conduct. 

Awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal. (Suppement to the L/G 49319, 15 th April 1983, pp. 5154.) 

148

Michael Philip TAMLIN, Leading Fireman, West Midlands Fire Service. 

Anthony WALKER, Fireman, West Midlands Fire Service. 

During the early hours of 28th October 1981, fire broke out in a dwelling above a shop premises. Leading Fireman Tamlin and 

Fireman Walker were crew members of the fire appliances which arrived at the scene within minutes of the emergency call. Four 

children were known to be trapped in the building and rescue attempts by neighbours had been thwarted by the intense heat and 

dense smoke. While other fire officers wearing breathing aids entered the building, Leading Fireman Tamlin and Fireman Walker, 

without this equipment, managed to gain access to the first floor from separate points. In spite of the appalling conditions of heat 

and dense smoke, Leading Fireman Tamlin reached the first floor by way of the staircase: he located a bedroom where he 

managed to find one child who had collapsed on the floor just inside the doorway. He carried the boy out and downstairs into the 

open air. Meanwhile, Fireman Walker had also found a way into the same bedrom via an outside extension ladder he located a 

second child who had also collapsed and carried her outside by means of the ladder. The children were removed to hospital 

suffering from the effect of smoke, but both subsequently recovered. 

Leading Fireman Tamlin and Fireman Walker displayed devotion to duty and bravery of a high order when, without the protection 

of breathing apparatus they separately entered the first floor bedroom which was severely affected by dense toxic fumes and heat 

and rescued the two children who, but for their efforts, would not have survived. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Suppement to the L/G 49319, 15 th April 1983, pp. 5155.) 

Stephen Robert COLMAN, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

For services leading to the rescue of a child who was trapped by heat and flames on the fourth floor roof of a burning hotel. 

Peter Francis HOLMES, Sub-Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

For services leading to the rescue of a deranged woman who had scaled a builder's scaffolding tower and threatened to jump to her 

death. 

Michael Arthur HARDING, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

For services while attending a call to extinguish a blazing vehicle in Brixton. 

Philip NEWBOLD, Fireman, South Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

Michael David PRINCE, Brigadesman, Mines Rescue Service, Kiverton Park Colliery, National Coal Board. 

For services during the attempted rescue of a driver who was trapped hi his vehicle which had fallen into a deep gulley in a stack 

of unstable pulverised coal. 

Queen Anne's Gate, London. (Supplement to the L/G. 49360, 15 th May 1983, pp.7033.) 

The QUEEN has been pleased by Warrant under Her Majesty's Royal Sign Manual bearing date the 17th May 1983 to appoint 

Harry Victor Reed to be an Inspector of Fire Services on and from 1 st . June 1983. 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. (Supplement to the L/G. 49375, 11 th June 

1983, pp. 7.) 

George CLARKE, Chief Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

O.B.E. 


pp. 9.) 

Andrew Noel LIGHTBODY, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, Cheshire Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the, Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 49375, 11 th June 

1983, pp.9.) 

Thomas DRAPER, Senior Divisional Officer, Lincolnshire Fire Brigade. 

Idris John William PUGH, lately Chief Administrative Officer, Buckinghamshire Fire Brigade. 



British Empire Medal (Civil Division). (Supplement to the L/G. 49375, 11 th June 1983, pp. 25.) 

Colin ASH, Sub-Officer, West Yorkshire Fire Service. 

Graham George BIRT, Sub-Officer, Wiltshire Fire Brigade. 

Roy COLEMAN, Sub-Officer, Northamptonshire Fire Brigade. 

Brian Godfrey HOSKINGS, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Ronald John JACKSON, Fireman, West Midlands Fire Service. 

Donald MACPHEE, Section Leader, Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting Service, Benbecula, Civil Aviation Authority. 

149



of The Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 49375, 11 th June 

1983, pp. 27.) 



Gerald Dawson CLARKSON, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Bryan Donald Alfred HULL, Divisional Officer Grade I, Bedfordshire Fire Service. 

John McLEAN, Divisional Officer Grade I, Northumberland County Fire Brigade. 

Peter WATSON, Assistant Chief Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND 

Hugh MORAN, Assistant Inspector of Fire Services 

Awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 49446, 12 th August 1983. pp. 10722.) 

Geoffrey YATES, Leading Fireman, South Yorkshire County Fire Service. 

On 23rd February, 1983, a serious fire broke out in a top floor flat of a seven-storey block. The occupant, who was trapped by the 

severity of the fire, had climbed partially through the window in order to escape from the flames, heat and smoke. 

Leading Fireman Yates was a member of one of the crews who responded to the emergency call. On the arrival of the Fire 

Service it was found that, due to the situation of the flat, neither the turntable ladder nor the hydraulic platform could be put into 

use. It was impossible to reach the occupant by entering the flat, so Leading Fireman Yates and a colleague forced an entry into 

an adjoining empty flat in order to reassure the trapped woman who was astride the safety rail and clinging to the window frame. 

She had her back to the two firemen and was severely affected by the heat and smoke of the fire. 

Whilst continually calling to the woman to stay where she was, Leading Fireman Yates took up a similar position astride the safety 

bar of the window of the next door flat. When it became clear that she could not be rescued by ladder in time Leading Fireman 

Yates colleague grasped his right wrist and counterbalanced his weight while the officer endeavoured to reach the girl by leaning 

across towards her: the distance, however, was too great. 

Realising the conditions in the burning flat were rapidly worsening, he shouted to the girl to throw her arm in his direction but, as 

she attempted to obey him, a violent explosion blew out the windows and the girl who was off balance catapulted from her 

precarious perch. Miraculously, before she could fall to the ground 60 feet below, Leading Fireman Yates managed to seize her 

left wrist in his left hand and for a few seconds she hung suspended until he was able to raise her sufficiently for his colleague to 

lean over and grasp her clothing. They then pulled her safely back into the building. 

In effecting this daring rescue in an extremely dangerous situation and without regard for his own perilous position, Leading 

Fireman Yates displayed devotion to duty and gallantry of a very high order. 

Awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 49446, 12 th August 1983. pp. 10723.) 

Keith Thomas SUMMERFIELD, Fireman, South Yorkshire County Fire Service. 

For services leading to the rescue of a young woman trapped by a serious fire in a high rise flat. 

O.B.E. 


1983, pp. 10.) 

John James KILLORAN, Q.F.S.M., Chief Officer, Devon Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G 49583, 31 st December 

1983, pp. 12/13.) 

Brian William BUTLER, Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Albert Douglas CAUNT, Senior Divisional Officer, Nottinghamshire Fire Service. 

Ian McMURTRIE, lately Assistant Firemaster, Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade. 


undermentioned. (Supplement to the L/G 49583, 31 st December 1983, pp. 22.) 


David Frederick BANKS, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Brian DAWSON, Retained Sub Officer, Durham Fire Brigade. 

Ian Cameron MACMILLAN, Fireman, Lochranza Unit, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

Trevor Hilton MEARS, Sub Officer, South Glamorgan Fire Service. 

Robert Leslie TAYLOR, Retained Sub Officer, Shropshire Fire Brigade. 

John WAINWRIGHT, Fireman, Leicestershire Fire Brigade. 






150

Roy Leonard BALDWIN, Temporary Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Bernard Leslie CHILD, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Air Force Department Fire Service, Ministry of Defence. 

Nigel MUSSELWHITE, Chief Officer, Somerset Fire Brigade. 

Peter Charles RODGERS, Deputy Chief Officer, East Sussex Fire Brigade. 

Garth Barrie SCOTFORD, Deputy Chief Officer, Royal Berkshire Fire Brigade. 

William TOZER, Deputy Chief Officer, Durham Fire Brigade. 

CHANNEL ISLANDS. 

James William CASSADAY, Chief Officer, Guernsey Fire Brigade. 


Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G. 49676, 16 th March 1984, pp. 3866.) 

Richard Martyn HOYLES, Assistant Divisional Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

For services when averting a serious disaster following a large spillage of petroleum at an oil terminal. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G. 49676, 16 th March 1984, pp. 3866.) 

Steven Jesse HARRISON, Fireman, West Yorkshire Fire Service. 

Jeffrey Joseph NAYLOR (Deceased), Fireman, West Yorkshire Fire Service. 

For services in attempting the rescue of five small children who were trapped in the upper storey of a burning house. 

10th August 1984 



Brave Conduct: 

Awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal.. (Supplement to the L/G. 49834, 10 th August 1984, pp. 10915.) 

Georgy Gray CELINE, Fireman, Bedfordshire Fire Brigade. 

On 28th December 1982 Fireman Celine was one of a number of firemen called to deal with a serious fire at a Bingo club in 

Luton. The blaze was being fought from inside the building when the roof suddenly collapsed into the lower floors, bringing 

down tons of steelwork, hot masonry and burning timber. A fireman was trapped by a girder, with a considerable amount of 

debris amassed on top. He was also in danger from the continuing spread of fire. The fireman's partner initially attempted to 

extricate him but realised the seriousness of the situation and went outside to get help. 

Fireman Celine responded to the call for assistance, immediately entered the building and found the trapped fireman, by the light 

of the fire. Fireman Celine dug with his bare hands to remove the debris, constantly re-assuring his colleague, who by now was in 

some pain from his injuries. The rescue work, involving manual removal of brickwork, masonry and timber, progressed in 

cramped and difficult conditions, directly underneath several tons of unsupported roof and debris. The remaining structure of the 

surrounding building was known to be dangerous and further burning debris continued to fall intermittently on the scene. 

The successful extrication of the trapped fireman was achieved after some 30 minutes. Fireman Celine's readiness to put himself 

in considerable danger over a prolonged period displayed gallantry of a high order. 

Awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal.. (Supplement to the L/G. 49834, 10 th August 1984, pp. 10916.) 

Kenneth John SUTTON, Sub Officer, East Sussex Fire Brigade. 

Having been awoken by shouting and screaming outside his house on the night of 6th January 1983, Mr. Sutton immediately went 

to a house nearby where, in the porch, he saw a powerfully built man, subsequently described as mentally deranged, kneeling over 

a woman (his wife), and attacking her with a chisel. The woman had already suffered a number of stab wounds. 

Mr. Sutton went at once to her assistance and wrenched the man away. During the violent struggle which followed Mr. Sutton 

managed to disarm the man, eventually overpowering and restraining him until a neighbour and Police Officers arrived. Mr. 

Sutton then helped the Police to administer first aid to the severely injured woman. A consultant surgeon said later that this may 

well have saved her life. 

Mr. Sutton showed outstanding public spirit and gallantry of a high order and a complete disregard for his own safety in tackling a 

violent man armed with a one inch wood chisel. 

Queen Anne's Gate, London SW1H 9AT (Supplement to the L/G. 49902, 19 th October 1984, pp.14141.) 

The QUEEN has been pleased by Warrant under the hands of The Counsellors of State bearing date 3rd October 1984, to appoint 

Reginald Derek Henry Doyle, Esquire, to be an Inspector of Fire Services on and from 1st October 1984. 


THE QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the award of The Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to 

the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 49969, 31 st December 1984. pp.27.) 

Q.F.S.M. 



Brian Godfrey JONES, Assistant Chief Officer, Merseyside Fire Brigade. 

Graham KARRAN, Chief Officer, West Yorkshire Fire Service. 

Raymond William LEATHER, Divisional Officer JJ. Greater Manchester Fire Service. 

William Henry WILLIAMS, Temp/Senior Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

151

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (Supplement to the L/G. 49969, 31 st December 

1984. pp.27.) 

Ralph Terence FORD, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, North Yorkshire Fire Brigade 

Rex MARTIN, Assistant Chief Officer, West Midlands Fire Brigade. 

William Charles PERRY, Deputy Chief Officer, Surrey Fire Brigade. 



B.E.M. 


Joe BELTON, Senior Fire Control Operator, Suffolk Fire Service. 

Donald COLE, Retained Sub Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

Hugh MAGORRIAN, Retained Sub Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Graham MELLOR, Sub Officer, Staffordshire Fire Brigade. 

Auguste Louis Henri VOEGELI, Fire Service Officer III, Radiological and Safety Division, Winfrith, United Kingdom Atomic 

Energy Authority. 


Queen Anne's Gate, London SW1H 9AT (Supplement to the L/G. 50089, 11 th April 1985, pp.5035.) 

The QUEEN has been pleased by Warrant under Her Majesty's Royal Sign Manual, bearing date 16th March 1985, to appoint 

James Dukelow, Esquire, to be an Inspector of Fire Services on and from 18th February 1985. 

Queen Anne's Gate, London SW1H 9AT (Supplement to the L/G. 50089, 11 th April, 1985, pp. 5035.) 

The QUEEN has been pleased by Warrant under Her Majesty's Royal Sign Manual, bearing date 16th March 1985, to appoint 

Geoffrey John Tinley Esquire, to be an Inspector of Fire Services on and from 1st April 1985. (previously a D.O. in Kent F.B. A 

fine lecturer and a rifle shot at international level. Died 2009). 

2nd July 1985 



Brave Conduct. (Third supplement to the L/G, 50181, 2 nd July 1985, pp. 9059.) 


Michael Henry GEORGE, Divisional Officer III, Dyfed County Fire Brigade. 

Terence Edward LANGDON, Fireman, Dyfed County Fire Brigade. 

On 15th June 1984 Divisional Officer George and Fireman Langdon were amongst a number of fireman called to deal with a fire 

on board the motor vessel 'Pointsman' berthed at Milford Haven Docks. Knowing that an explosion and fire had occurred, and that 

four person were reported missing in the pump room, Fireman Langdon took charge of a breathing apparatus team and descended 

to the lower level of the pump room. He discovered a casualty lying above the pumps. Ignoring the fire in the pump room 

Fireman Langdon, together with one of his team, lifted the injured man on to a vertical ladder in order that he might be rescued by 

firemen on an upper level. The injured man was subsequently taken to the main deck level where Divisional Officer George, who 

was supervising the incident, took the man in his arms and carried him out of the pump room while Fireman Langdon led his team 

back to the lower level of the pump room in order to search for further casualties. 

Shortly afterwards a second explosion occurred, and Divisional Officer George was thrown by the blast some 9-10 feet across the 

main deck He suffered severe burns to his back. Despite these injuries, and the threat of further explosions, Divisional Officer 

George assisted injured firemen and ambulance men to the dock side. He then returned to the pump room to help the injured 

members of Fireman Langdon's party. 

He lifted two firemen out of the pump room over the raised border of the ship's hatch to safety. He remained in charge until, after 

a third explosion, he was satisfied that the incident was fully in hand and all the injured firemen had been taken to hospital. 

Fireman Langdon had reached, alone, the third lower level of the pump room, the area of greatest penetration and risk, when the 

second explosion occurred. When he recovered from the initial shock of the blast he realised that he had been cut off from the 

remainder of his team, who might also be injured, above him. Despite severe injuries to his arms and legs Fireman Langdon 

climbed two ladders to make his own way on to the main deck 

Divisional Officer George and Fireman Langdon displayed outstanding devotion to duty, a complete disregard for personal safety 

and bravery of a high order throughout the rescue attempt. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (S upplement to the L/G. 50154, 15 th June 1985, 

pp. 9.) 

Alan John ARCHER, Q.F.S.M., lately Chief Officer, Buckinghamshire Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order : (S upplement to the L/G. 50154, 15 th June 

1985, pp. 9.) 

152

Grace Effy Charlotte, Mrs. DE LA MARE, Area Fire Control Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

William Grant McDonald STEWART, lately Station Officer, Tayside Fire Brigade. 

THE QUEEN has been graciously pleased on the occasion of the Celebration of Her Majesty's Birthday, to approve the award 


B.E.M. 


Adam Stevens BROWN, Fireman, Ministry of Defence. 

Barry KEANE, Leading Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

David William MUSSETT, Retained Sub Officer, Essex Fire Brigade. 

Gordon Herbert SMITH, Sub Officer, Bedfordshire Fire Brigade. 



of The Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: 

Q.F.S.M. 



Sidney Keith LIVERMORE, Divisional Officer 1, Norfolk Fire Service. 

Peter REID, Chief Officer, Staffordshire Fire Brigade. 

John Anthony ROBINSON, Chief Officer, Cornwall Fire Brigade. 

Leslie Gordon TRELIVING, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

James Roy WATSON, Chief Officer, Lancashire Fire Brigade. 

Robert Gordon WILSON, Chief Officer, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. 


Kenneth McNEILL, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

SCOTLAND 

John THOMSON, Firemaster, Fife Fire and Rescue Service. 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. (Supplement to the L/G. 50361, 31 st 

December 1985, pp.7.) 

Martin KILLORAN, Q.F.S.M., lately Chief Officer, Greater Manchester Fire Service. 

O.B.E. 


1985, pp. 9.) 

Ronald Henry GUNSTON, Chief Fire Service Officer, Ministry of Defence. 

George Henry MOORE, Q.F.S.M., Chief Officer, Lincolnshire Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. (Supplement to the L/G. 50361, 31 st December 

1985, pp. 12). 

Basil Edward ALLEN, Retained Station Officer, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Valerie Ann, Mrs. HARGREAVES, Editor, „Fire‟ Magazine. 


undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 50361, 31 st December 1985, pp. 21.) 

B.E.M. 

British Empire Medal. (Civil Division) 

Eric Raymond Alfred BUSBY, Retained Sub Officer, Kent.Fire Brigade. 

George Alfred EDENBOROUGH, Senior Fire Control Operator, Hereford and Worcester Fire Brigade. 

Joseph GREIG, Sub Officer West Yorkshire Fire Service. 

Edward Albert HUCKLE, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

James Thomas Cook ROSE, Retained Sub-Officer, Central Region Fire Brigade. 

Joseph Harold STOCKTON, Retained Leading Fireman, Lincolnshire Fire Brigade. 




Q.F.S.M. 



Trevor BASSETT, Chief Officer, Dorset Fire Brigade. 

Christopher Valentine EVANS, Divisional Officer II, Nottinghamshire Fire Service. 

153

Albert Richard KENNEDY, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

William James MACKENZIE, Deputy Chief Officer, Hertfordshire Fire Brigade. 

Kenneth TROTT, Chief Fire Prevention Officer, Navy Department Fire Prevention Service. 

Albert Leslie WILLS, Assistant Chief Officer, West Midlands Fire Service. 


Awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 50458, 14 th March 1986 1986, pp. 3673.) 

John Leslie GREAVES, Fireman, South Yorkshire County Fire Service. 

On 18th February 1985 Fireman Greaves was one of a number of firemen called to rescue a man buried within a collapsed coal tip. 

Fireman Greaves immediately entered the tip through a small hole and located the man buried up to his neck in coal shale. The 

direction of the hole was both vertically downwards, and into the tip leaving a 20-foot high unsupported overhang of shale 

weighing several tonnes. 

Fireman Greaves climbed into the area directly beneath this precarious overhang and began to dig away loose shale from around 

the man, initially using his bare hands. Parts of the overhang were breaking away and severe cracking was also evident. He 

worked continually in a crouched position so that his back did not make contact with the base of the overhang. Despite tiredness, 

Fireman Greaves refused offers of relief as it was apparent that a hangeover would have been a dangerous manoeuvre and might 

have caused a further collapse. After a period of approximately 20 minutes Fireman Greaves succeeded in releasing the trapped 

man. 

Fireman Greaves displayed outstanding gallantry, devotion to duty, and a complete disregard for his personal safety in effecting 

this rescue in an extremely dangerous situation. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order (Supplement to the L/G. 50551, 14 th June 1986, 

pp.10. 

Malcolm James MACE, Q.F.S.M., lately Chief Officer, South Glamorgan Fire Service. 

M.B.E. 


1986, pp. 13.) 

William Desmond GRAHAM, Brigade Training Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Robert Thomas JONES, lately Assistant Divisional Officer, Gwynedd Fire Service. 



B.E.M. (Civil Division) 

British Empire Medal 

Robert GARRETT, Sub-Officer, Northamptonshire Fire Brigade. 

John LOGUE, Leading Fireman, Mid-Glamorgan Fire Brigade. 

Dick PROUDFOOT, Brigade Engineer, Norfolk Fire Brigade. 

Thomas Barnett ROBINSON, Sub-Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Thomas WILLIAMSON, Blacksmith, Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade. 

THE QUEEN has been graciouly pleased, on the occasion of the celebration of Her Majesty's Birthday, to approve the award 

of The Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: 

Q.F.S.M. 



Norman BLAKEY, Assistant Chief Officer, Leicestershire Fire Service. 

Ronald BROWN, Senior Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

William Charles COOMBES, Assistant Chief Officer, West Midlands Fire Service. 

Colin Francis McMANUS, Deputy Chief Officer, Greater Manchester Fire Service. 

Michael ROGERS, Chief Fire Officer, West Sussex Fire Brigade. 

Richard John SMYTHE, Senior Divisional Officer, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Roy SNAREY, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND 

John Livingston HALES, Deputy Firem aster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

Queen Anne's Gate, London SW1H 9AT. Supplement to the L/G. 50688, 17 th October 1986, pp. 13436. 

The QUEEN has been pleased by Warrant under Her Majesty's Royal Sign Manual, bearing date 3rd October 1986, 

to appoint Dennis Frederick Robins, Esquire, Q.F.S.M., to be an Inspector of Fire Services on and from 1 st October 1986. 

154

8th October 1986. 

O.B.E. 


1986, pp, 9.) 

Peter Denis CONNOLLY. For services to the Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Thomas Frederick ELTON, Q.F.S.M., Chief Officer, Tyne and Wear Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 


1986, pp, 12.) 

David Newson ING. For services to the Fire Service National Benevolent Fund. 

Mollie Adelaide Winifred, Mrs. SUMNER, Lately Group Fire Control Officer, Staffordshire Fire Brigade. 

B.E.M. 

British Empire Medal (Civil Division). Supplement to the L/G. 50764, 31 st . December 1986, pp, 19. 

Philip Malcolm BATSFORD, Retained Sub-Officer, Warwickshire Fire Brigade. 

Christopher David BERESFORD, Leading Fireman, Staffordshire Fire Brigade. 

John George OLIVER, Retained Station Officer, Tyne and Wear Fire Brigade. 

George REDMOND, Retained Sub-Officer, Somerset Fire Brigade. 

John William Harold SMITH, Sub-Officer, Essex Fire Brigade. 



to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 50764, 31 st December 1986, pp, 24.) 

Q.F.S.M. 



Eric Samuel SARGEANT, Assistant Chief Officer, Cheshire Fire Brigade. 

Brian Arthur LEECH, Senior Divisional Officer, Suffolk Fire Brigade. 

Harold George STINTON, Deputy Chief Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

Derek John HOWARTH, Deputy Chief Officer, West Yorkshire Fire Service. 

Lawson Edward SMITH, Divisional Officer I, Shropshire Fire Brigade. 

Michael John HUGHES, Assistant Chief Officer, Essex Fire Brigade. 

Christopher John FOWLER, Senior Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 


Stephen Henry WALKER, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 


Awarded the Queens Gallantry Medal (Supplement to the L/G, 50831, 13 th February 1987, pp. 1945.) 

Michael Alistair CAPE, Station Officer, Hednesford Mines Rescue Service, British Coal. 

Bernard GIDMAN, Leading Fireman, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Peter David HURLEY, Retained Fireman, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

On 27th April 1986 at approximately 11 am, a five-year-old boy was walking with friends over a hillside when he fell into a hole 

which was covered by bracken and undergrowth. The boy became firmly wedged in a fissure at a depth of twenty-three feet. 

Emergency rescue services were called. 

Leading Fireman Gidman was a crew member of the first appliance to arrive. He lowered a line, but the boy was trapped by his 

arms and his head, and was unable to move. The area around the hole was covered with loose soil, of which a large quantity fell 

on to the boy. Fireman Gidman entered the hole, using his body to prevent further falls until low pressure air bags could be 

positioned to secure the upper part of the hole. A survey of the immediate area revealed a large underground fault system, and 

since the ground surface was highly unstable it was impossible to carry out rescue operations directly down the hole. It was 

decided to sink a separate shaft, about eighteen feet away, to a depth of twenty feet, and then to tunnel to below the point where 

die boy was trapped. When the top soil was removed a continuous fissure estimated to be more than one hundred feet deep was 

found. The bulk of the digging and shoring up of shafts with limber was carried out by Mr Cape, Leading Fireman Gidman and 

Retained Fireman Hurley. The team worked for long periods in cramped and dangerous conditions. There were several minor 

earth falls. The risk of a major landslip meant that only hand operated tools could be used. By 3.30 p.m. the boy could be seen, 

covered by earth and stones. Mr Cape edged his way along a fissure, not more than nine inches wide, to within ten feet of the boy. 

He managed to remove debris from around his head using a scraper attached to chimney rods, and finally cleared his face with an 

industrial vacuum cleaner. By 4.45 p.m. the rescue team could touch the boy. His body was quickly freed, but he remained firmly 

wedged by his head. After a further forty-five minutes Fireman Hurley managed to extricate the boy and he was lifted to safety. 

Mr Cape, Leading Fireman Gidman and Retained Fireman Hurley displayed bravery and devotion to duty of a higher order when, 

without regard for their own safety, they worked in dangerous and cramped conditions for many hours to bring about the rescue of 

the boy. 

155

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Second Supplement to the L/G. 50831, 12 th February 1987, pp. 1947.) 

Alan SCALES, Fireman, Tyne and Wear Metropolitan Fire Brigade. 

Kenneth SMITH, Fireman, Tyne and Wear Metropolitan Fire Brigade. 

For services leading to the rescue of an emotionally disturbed man who had scaled a 370 feet high radio communications mast in 

darkness and in extreme weather conditions. 

O.B.E. 


pp. 10.) 

Arthur Crawford McFARLAND, Member, Fire Authority, Northern Ireland. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 50948, 13 th June 1987, 

pp. 12.) 

Arnold George FIELD, Q.F.S.M., Secretary, West Midlands Fire Service Pensioners Association. 



B.E.M. 


John Richard Gwyn JENKINS, Station Officer, Dyfed Fire Service. 

James McDOWELL, lately Retained Sub-Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Miss Doreen Peggy Joy MASCALL, Senior Fire Control Operator, Essex Fire Brigade. 

John SEYMOUR, Sub Officer, Wheathampstead Station, Hertfordshire Fire Brigade. 




1987, pp. 23.) 

Q.F.S.M. 



Harold Charles COSHAM, Divisional Officer II, Suffolk Fire Brigade. 

Ivor SOUTHWORTH, Assistant Chief Officer, Lancashire Fire Brigade. 

Michael Terrence SULLIVAN, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. 

David Anthony WINK, Assistant Chief Officer, Ministry of Defence (Army). 

SCOTLAND 

Alexander WINTON, Firemaster, Tayside Fire Brigade. 


The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the following awards of The Queen's Gallantry Medal and for the 


Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G. 51021, 6 th August 1987, pp. 9973.) 

Queen's Gallantry Medal. 

Arthur William BRADBURY, Airline Purser, British Airways. 

Miss Sharon Kathleen FORD (Deceased), Airline Stewardess, British Airways. 

Miss Joanna TOFF, Airline Stewardess, British Airways. 

Jacqueline Mary, Mrs. URBANSKI (Deceased), Airline Stewardess, British Airways. 

Samuel LYTTLE, Fireman, Manchester International Airport Fire Service. 

Eric Arthur WESTWOOD, Fireman, Manchester International Airport Fire Service. 

On 22nd August 1985 a twin jet aircraft carrying one hundred and thirty one passengers and six crew reached a take-off speed of 

approximately 120 knots when there was an explosion in the port engine and the take-off was aborted. When the aircraft came to 

a standstill the port side and rear of the aircraft were on fire. The Captain ordered emergency evacuation from the starboard exits. 

Mr. Bradbury and Miss Toff were on duty at the forward end of the aircraft. Mr. Bradbury attempted to open the starboard door 

but this jammed. Mr. Bradbury opened the port exit a short way, decided that it could for a time be safely used, and inflated the 

escape chute. Miss Toff began the evacuation of passengers from the port side. Mr. Bradbury returned to the starboard exit, found 

and rectified the fault, opened the door and inflated the escape chute. Mr.Bradbury and Miss Toff assisted a total of fifty three 

passengers to evacuate the aircraft through both forward doors, despite the advance of dense toxic smoke from the rear of the 

cabin. At the time of the explosion in the port engine Miss Ford and Mrs. Urbanski were on duty at the rear of the aircraft. Frcm 

their position they had a clear view of the severity of the fire. They reacted quickly, opened the rear starboard door before the 

Captain gave the order to evacuate, and deployed the emergency chute as the aircraft came to a standstill. The fire became 

significantly more ferocious and the chute was destroyed making evacuation from the rear exits impossible. Flames engulfed the 

rear section of the aircraft and passengers sought to. move forward, packing the central aisle. 

Miss Ford and Mrs. Urbanski moved among them endeavouring to bring order and calm. Miss Ford and Mrs. Urbanski died 

shortly afterwards near their respective posts. 

156

As fire service personnel arrived on the scene the aircraft was burning fiercely. The fire was fed by fuel which poured from 

ruptured tanks on the port wing. Passengers emerged from the emergency exit over the starboard wing and were standing on the 

leading edge, their escape via the trailing edge cut off by flames. Despite intense heat and smoke, and the danger of a flare-up, 

Firemen Lyttle and Westwood mounted the wing and helped passengers down from the aircraft to colleagues below. Fireman 

Lytle attempted to rescue a passenger who had become trapped through the overwing exit, but flames coming from the aircraft 

forced him to leave. Fireman Westwood went to the aid of a passenger in difficulties at the starboard exit, and safely extracted 

him. This was the last survivor to be rescued. 

Mr. Bradbury, Miss Ford, Miss Toff, and Mrs. Urbanski displayed coolness, outstanding courage and devotion to duty. They 

remained at their posts and saved many lives. Firemen Lyttle and Westwood also displayed outstanding bravery and disregard for 

their own safety when they mounted the wing to rescue passengers. 


The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the following awards of The Queen's Gallantry Medal and for the 


Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G. 51021, 6 th August 1987, pp. 9974.) 

Queen's Gallantry Medal. 

Frank Albert DUCKWORTH, Fireman, Tyne and Wear Fire Brigade. 

John MAIR, Fireman, Tyne and Wear Fire Brigade. 

John THORNBY, Fireman, Tyne and Wear Fire Brigade. 

On 18th August 1986 units from Tyne and Wear Fire Brigade were called to an incident where two youths had scaled an 

Electricity Board pylon and had come into contact with live cables carrying 66,000 volts. One youth was motionless and appeared 

to be dead; the other was alive and moving. 

Arrangements were put in hand for the power to be isolated, but because it would be some time before the pylon was declared safe 

it was decided to pitch a ladder to the cross member of the pylon below where the youths were lying and attempt to rescue the 

youth still alive. Firemen Duckworth and Thoraby ascended the ladder wearing normal firefighting uniform and rubber gloves. 

At the same time Fireman Mair, similarly clad and carrying a wooden ceiling hook, (designed to break and bring down plaster 

ceilings) climbed the pylon. Fireman Thornby at the head of the ladder took the weight of the injured youth on his shoulder while 

Fireman Duckworth attempted to free his limbs which had become entwined in the cross members of the pylon. At the same time 

Fireman Mair used the ceiling hook to prevent the youth from touching the live cables. 

All three were working within inches of the high tension cables. The awkwardness of the working angle twisted Fireman 

Thornby's shoulder and his place at the head of the ladder was taken by Fireman Duckworth. Taking the weight of the injured 

youth on his chest and supporting him with his arms, Fireman Duckworth made his way down the ladder supported by colleagues 

from behind. The youth was removed to hospital but died from his injuries the following day. The body of the second youth was 

removed after power supplies had been isolated from the pylon. 

Firemen Duckworth, Mair and Thornby displayed bravery and determination of a very high order when, without regard for their 

own safety, they worked within inches of high tension cables in order to bring about the rescue of the youth. 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 51171, 31 st 

December 1987, pp. 7.) 

Ronald Alfred BULLERS, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. 

O.B.E. 


1987, pp. 11.) 

Peter Henry WILSON, Chief Fire Officer, Nottinghamshire Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 


1987, pp. 11.) 

Brian Michael BATTY, Divisional Officer II, Hereford and Worcester Fire Brigade 

Maurice John BEAN, Vice-Chairman, British Fire Protection Association Systems Ltd. 

B.E.M. 

British Empire Medal (Civil Division). (Supplement to the L/G. 51171, 31 st December 1987, pp. 21.) 

Peter Batey GIDLEY, Sub-Officer, West Midlands Fire Service. 

John David GRIFFITHS, Leading Fireman, Dyfed County Fire Service. 

Bernard Frank NEWMAN, Station Officer, Bedfordshire Fire Service. 

Malcolm Vincent RHODES, Sub Officer, Nottinghamshire Fire Brigade. 

31st December 1987. 


to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 51171, 31 st December 1987, pp 25.) 

Q.F.S.M. 


157


Alexander HUGHES, Divisional Officer I, Oxfordshire Fire Service. 

James Leslie McMILLAN, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. 

Robert Vincent GRAY, Assistant Chief Officer, Merseyside Fire and Civil Defence Authority. 

John Alfred GENTLEMAN, Divisional Officer I, Wiltshire Fire Brigade. 

Thomas Albert BAILEY, Assistant Chief Officer, Mid Glamorgan Fire Service. 


C.B.E. 


1988, pp. 9.) 

Dennis James WILLMOTT, Q.F.S.M., lately Chief Fire Officer, Merseyside Fire Brigade. 

O.B.E. 


pp. 11.) 

James STEWART, Member, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

M.B.E. 


pp. 13.) 

Miss Mildred EMMETT, Group Fire Control Officer, Greater Manchester Fire Service. 



B.E.M. 


Barry CLARKE, Station Officer, Dorset Fire Brigade. 

Ernest CLYDE, Sub-Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Gordon David FARMER, Sub Officer, East Sussex Fire Brigade. 

Peter William JARVIS, Station Officer, Norfolk Fire Service. 

Richard John Vaudin MAUGER, Sub Officer, Guernsey States Fire Brigade. 

Beatrice Sarah, Mrs. STURGESS, Honorary Firewoman (Cleaner), Cambridgeshire Fire Service. 

Alexander WHYTE, Sub-Officer, Highlands and Islands Fire Brigade. 




1988, pp. 25.) 

Q.F.S.M. 



Frank BOOTH, Assistant Chief Officer, Army Fire Service. 

William Wilson DUNLOP, Deputy Chief Officer, Tyne and Wear Fire Brigade. 

James GURNEY, Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Frank Nicholson HIGGINS, Deputy Chief Officer, Bedfordshire Fire Service. 

Alan McANDREW, Divisional Officer II, Suffolk Fire Service. 

Francis George WILTON, Chief Officer, Avon Fire Service. 

Henry Edward WRIGHT, Chief Officer, South Yorkshire County Fire Service. 

SCOTLAND 

Clive Benson HALLIDAY, Firemaster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

Awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal. (Second supplement to the L/G. 51449, 23 rd August 1988, pp 9535.) 

Edwin GOODMAN (deceased), Lately Retained Fireman, Clwyd County Fire Service. 

On 4th March 1987 Fireman Goodman was among a number of fire and rescue officers called to a farm where two brothers, both 

farmworkers, had become trapped inside a grain silo. From the opening at the top of the silo it was observed that the brothers 

were lying motionless on the grain, having been overcome by an accumulation of gases. 

Fireman Goodman entered the silo wearing breathing apparatus. He lowered himself through the narrow opening and descended a 

ladder to the surface of the grain. Visibility was very poor. Fireman Goodman attempted to resuscitate the brothers by giving 

them cardiac massage. A fire service rope was lowered. The officer attached it successively to the brothers who were hauled up 

by those outside. As the rescuers were struggling to get the second casualty through the opening the warning whistle sounded, 

showing that ten minutes of air was left in Fireman Goodman's breathing apparatus. 

158

Shortly afterwards Fireman Goodman appeared on the ladder without his face mask. He was having difficulty in breathing, and 

before his colleagues could reach him, fell back onto the grain. Despite the efforts of colleagues to rescue him, Fireman Goodman 

died. 

In attempting this rescue in an extremely confined and dangerous situation Fireman Goodman displayed devotion to duty and 

gallantry of a high order. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Third supplement to the L/G. 51449, 23 rd August 1988, pp 9536.) 

Kenneth George ASHLEY, Station Officer, West Midlands Fire Service. 

For services in effecting the rescue of a disturbed man who had climbed a 220 foot high builders lift hoist and was threatening to 

jump. 


THE QUEEN has been graciously pleased to signify her intention of conferring the Honour of Knighthood upon the 

undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 51578, 31 st December 1988, pp. 2.) 

Knights Bachelor 

Reginald Derek Henry DOYLE, C.B.E., Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Fire Services. 

C.B.E. 



Brian Leslie FULLER, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, West Midlands Fire Service. 

O.B.E. 


1988, pp. 9.) 

Bryan Thomas Alfred COLLINS, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, Humberside Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 


1988, pp. 11.) 

Robert Anthony GRAHAM, Assistant Chief Officer, Greater Manchester Fire Service. 

Thomas William Malcolm JOHN, Assistant Divisional Officer, South Glamorgan 

Peter George NEESON, Divisional Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland Fire Service. 

Alistair Caie SPENCE, Station Officer, Fire Prevention, Grampian Fire Brigade. 

B.E.M. 

British Empire Medal (Civil Division). (Supplement to the L/G. 51578, 31 st December 1988, pp. 21.) 


John James BURNS, Sub-Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

James Bernard GOODWIN, Sub Officer, West Midlands Fire Service. 

Montague HAND, President, West Sussex Council of the Fire Services National Benevolent Fund. 

John Barrie ROBINSON, Station Officer, West Yorkshire Fire Service. 

Harry Hunter WILSON, Sub Officer, Cumbria Fire Service. 




Q.F.S.M. 



Ronald JENKINS, Divisional Officer III, Cheshire Fire Brigade. 

Terence William MALPASS, Chief Officer, Durham County Fire Brigade. 

John Robert PEARSON, Chief Officer, Hampshire Fire Service. 

John WEDDELL, Deputy Chief Officer, Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service. 

James Henry WINDSOR, Chief Officer, West Glamorgan Fire Brigade. 


Awarded the George Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 51745, 25 th May 1989, pp. 6217.) 

Colin James TOWNSLEY (deceased), Station Officer, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. 

On Wednesday, 18th November 1987, at approximately 7.30 p.m. a fire was reported at King's Cross Underground Station on an 

escalator connecting the Underground ticket hall to the Piccadilly Line platforms. At 7.36 p.m., units from the London Fire 

Brigade were summoned to attend the fire. 

A team of fire officers, led by Station Officer Townsley, arrived at 7.42 p.m. There was no sign of fire at street level and the fire 

officers entered the station to make an initial investigation. The fire was observed about one-third of the way down the right-hand 

159

side escalator. Station Officer Townsley immediately ordered his firemen to return to the fire appliance to equip themselves with 

breathing apparatus sets and a fire hose. To safeguard the public, Station Officer Townsley remained near the top of the 

escalators. At approximately 7.45 p.m., there was a sudden and dramatic increase in temperature, a build-up of dense acrid smoke, 

and fire flashed over the concourse ceiling. Within seconds the concourse was plunged into total darkness. Panic ensued as 

passengers rushed for the exit points. Station Officer Townsley remained within the booking hall area to assist as best he could 

those seeking to escape until he was overcome by toxic fumes. He was found lying on the floor close to a badly burned woman. 

He was taken by ambulance to hospital where he was certified dead on arrival. Station Officer Townsley, with total disregard for 

his own safety, had remained within the concourse without breathing apparatus to assist passengers to escape until he was 

overcome by intense smoke and heat. He displayed selfless devotion to duty and gallantry of a high order when faced with 

conditions of extreme danger. 

Awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 51745, 25 th May 1989, pp. 6217.) 

Robert Edward MOULTON, Fireman, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. 

Fireman Moulton, together with two colleagues, was instructed by his Station Officer, when the fire had been located, to return to 

the fire appliance, which was parked near a subway entrance to equip himself with breathing apparatus and a fire hose. Whilst he 

was engaged in running out several hose lines and rigging himself in breathing apparatus, dense, acrid smoke began to pour from 

the subway entrance. On entering the subway, Fireman Moulton and his two colleagues were confronted by a surge of intense 

heat and smoke. They were forced to penetrate the subway crawling on their stomachs under cover of a jet's spray. They 

managed to recover a badly burned woman and carry her back to street level where they tried to revive her without success. 

Fireman Moulton and his colleagues then re-entered the subway. Again, they were forced to crawl on their stomachs because of 

the heat. Moving past his colleagues Fireman Moulton crawled ahead, disappearing into the intense heat and smoke. At this point 

he found Station Officer Townsley on the floor. He crawled back past his colleagues to seek the assistance of two other firemen 

and, with them, carried Station Officer Townsley to street level. Fireman Moulton and another fireman sought to revive Station 

Officer Townsley until an ambulance crew and a doctor took over. Although at this point physically and mentally exhausted, 

Fireman Moulton once more entered the station and became involved in search and rescue activities until he was withdrawn. 

Fireman Moulton, working to the limits of his endurance, displayed devotion to duty and gallantry of a high order by repeatedly 

penetrating the intense heat and smoke, by locating, rescuing and attempting to resuscitate two victims of the fire, and by returning 

to help with yet further search and rescue work until ordered to withdraw. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G. 51745, 25 th May 1989, pp. 6218.) 

Stewart BUTTON, Temporary Leading Fireman, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. 

For services in assisting to fight a fire which had spread to the concourse of the King's Cross Underground booking hall from the 

Piccadilly Line escalators, for helping passengers who had collapsed to safety, for recovering a badly burned woman and for 

repeatedly penetrating the intense heat and smoke to engage in rescue work and fire fighting duties. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G. 51745, 25 th May 1989, pp. 6219.) 

John EDGAR, Fireman, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. 


Piccadilly Line escalators, for helping passengers who had collapsed to safety, for recovering a badly burned woman and for 

repeatedly penetrating the intense heat and smoke to engage in rescue work and fire fighting duties until withdrawn and removed 

to hospital for treatment of burns. 

Paul Henry HALE, Fireman, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. 


Piccadilly Line escalators, working to the limits of his endurance and to the point of collapse, and for rescuing a badly burned 

passenger. 

Vernon Ronald TREFRY, Sub-Officer,London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. 

For services in leading and organising fire crews to fight an outbreak of fire on the King's Cross Underground booking hall 

concourse and Piccadilly Line escalators, working to the limits of his endurance and to the point of collapse, 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. (Supplement to the L/G 51772, 17 th June 

1989, pp. 7.) 

Norman Francis ROUNDELL, Q.F.S.M., Inspector, Grade I, Fire Service Inspectorate. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. (Supplement to the L/G 51772, 17 th June 1989, 

pp. 14.) 

James Robertson LESLIE, Aerodrome Fire Service Officer II, Sumburgh Aerodrome, Shetland. 

Clifford John SHORE. For services to the London Fire Brigade particularly during the King's Cross Underground Fire. 

Peter Alexander TATE, Assistant Divisional Officer, Somerset Fire Brigade. 




B.E.M. 

160

British Empire Medal (Civil Division). (Supplement to the L/G 51772, 17 th June 1989, pp. 20.) 

Anthony Charles DYER, lately Retained Sub-Officer, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Peter Alfred GELDSETZER, Retained Sub-Officer, Royal Berkshire Fire Brigade. 



of The Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G 51772, 17 th June 

1989, pp. 25.) 

Q.F.S.M. 


Henry HADDOCK, Chief Officer, Nottinghamshire Fire Service. 

George Victor HOWES, Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. (Joined Kent F.B. late in 1963 aged just over 18 

years. In the same recruit squad as the compiler of this list and we were trained thoroughly by SubO. ‗Jack‘ Frost. At the end of 

the 13 week course we were both posted to Erith, then K.F.B. George transferred to L.F.B. when the G.L.C. was formed and the 

‗top end‘ of Kent was transferred to London. Retired as an A.C.O. Sadly, George died shortly after his retirement. A good friend 

to the end.) 

John Owen MORGAN, Chief Officer, Gwynedd Fire Service. 

Douglas John RITHERDON, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Roy William SALES, Senior Divisional Officer, Warwickshire Fire Brigade. 

Arthur Ewing WIGGETTS, Deputy Chief Officer, Greater Manchester Fire Service. 

SCOTLAND 

Ian Simpson Thomson ADAM, Firemaster, Central Region Fire Brigade. 

Awarded The Queen's Gallantry Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 51836, 10 th August 1989, pp. 9274.) 

Lyndon Charles LLOYD, Sub Officer, Avon Fire Brigade. 

On Tuesday, 8th March 1988 at approximately 5.25 p.m. two tanker drivers were in the process of loading gas oil into their road 

tankers at an oil terminal when an explosion occurred near one of the vehicles. A rapid fire developed immediately, engulfing 

both tankers. Units from the Avon Fire Brigade were called to the scene. 

The Fire Brigade arrived to find minor explosions occurring within the individual tank compartments within each tanker, causing 

them to rupture and spill their contents to form a flowing liquid fire. Furthermore, four other road tankers were in the process of 

loading petroleum spirit at two adjacent gantries. These vehicles all had their tank lids open with the gantry loading arms in 

position in the tank compartments. Although the fuel supply had been switched off shortly after the fire commenced, there was a 

high risk of ignition of the vapours rising from the tanks. By now a heat and smoke layer had built up beneath the loading bay roof 

and was descending to a level close to the tops of the threatened tankers, which could give rise to a serious flashover. A message 

was relayed by a fire officer to increase the number of Water Tenders required from four to ten, four being insufficient to provide 

cooling jets for the tankers whilst a simultaneous attack was made on the fire. 

As it was becoming increasingly urgent to move the four vehicles, Sub Officer Lloyd mounted one of the gantries and proceeded 

to remove the loading arm, having been shown how to do so by one of the tanker drivers. The vehicle, which had been 

immobilized and required de-isolating before it could be started, was driven away to safety by one of the road tanker drivers. 

Sub Officer Lloyd mounted the gantries twice more to remove the loading arms of another two vehicles, isolating them before he 

drove them away to safety. The fourth vehicle was made safe and driven to safety by another fireman. While the vehicles were 

being moved a further explosion erupted from one of the burning tankers. After a concerted attack using foam and cooling jets, 

the fire was brought under control at 7.12p.m. 

Sub Officer Lloyd displayed devotion to duty and gallantry of a high order when faced with conditions of extreme danger, caused 

by a serious outbreak of fire in an oil terminal. To release three road tankers near the seat of the fire, he three times mounted the 

loading gantries to remove the loading arms from them. He himself then drove two of the vehicles to a place of safety. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G 51836, 10 th August 1989, pp .9276.) 

John Frederick Charles GAMLIN, Station Officer, Avon Fire Brigade. 

For services in removing the loading arm from a road tanker, which was in close proximity to a serious outbreak of fire at an oil 

terterminal, and for driving the vehicle to a place of safety. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G 51981, 31 st December 

1989, pp. 9.) 

Kenneth HAYTON, Chief Fire Officer, Clwyd Fire Service. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G 51981, 31 st December 

1989, pp. 11.) 

Dennis ANDREWS, Senior Divisional Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. 

Joseph Anthony BISHOP, Divisional Officer I, London Fire Brigade. 

Patrick John McGOWAN, Sub-Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Paul Francis Joseph QUICK, Assistant Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Alan WEBB, lately Chief Fire Officer, East Midlands International Airport. 

161


undermentioned. (Supplement to the L/G 51981, 31 st December 1989, pp. 20.) 

B.E.M. 


Wilson KELLY, Sub-Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Peter Harold KISBY, Fireman, Leicester Fire and Rescue Service. 

Neil Alfred PRINCE, Sub Officer, Staffordshire Fire Brigade. 

John Neil Fletcher REID, Retained Sub Officer, Langholm Fire Station. 

Francis Colin TRUSCOTT, Leading Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

30th December 1989 



Q.F.S.M. 



Patrick William ARIS, Chief Officer, Avon Fire Brigade. 

William Frederick BLAKE, Assistant Chief Officer, Royal Berkshire Fire Brigade. 

Alan Richard JONES, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Graham MELDRUM, Deputy Chief Officer, West Midlands Fire Service. 

Anthony Joseph PARRY, Chief Officer, Greater Manchester Fire Service. 

Stephen Ray TYRRELL, Divisional Officer I, London Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND 

John Barry STIFF, Firemaster, Dumfries and Galloway Fire Brigade. 



C.B.E. 


1990, pp. 11.) 

Gerald Dawson CLARKSON, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive, London Fire Brigade. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: 

Michael ROGERS, Q.F.S.M., lately Chief Officer, West Sussex Fire Brigade. (Supplement to the L/G. 52173, 16 th June 1990, pp. 

11.) 

M.B.E. 


pp. 13.) 

Michael CLAUGHTON, Senior Divisional Officer, Somerset Fire Brigade. 

Lewis Norman FRANCIS, Fire Control Officer, Dorset Fire Brigade. 

Malcolm MASON, Assistant Divisional Officer, Gwynedd Fire Service. 

16th June 1990. 



B.E.M. 


Bernard Richard Thomas CHAMINGS, Station Officer Retained, Devon Fire Service. 

Dermot Laurence HAYES, Temporary Sub-Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

David Elgan JONES, Sub Officer Retained, Dyfed Fire Brigade 

Terence James Ronald JONES, Station Officer Retained, Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service. 

John Thomas LANCASTER, Chief Fire Officer, British Aerospace (Military Aircraft) Ltd. 

Alfred Franklin STINSON, Sub-Officer, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Martin John WALKER, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

John Frederick WEBB, Fire Officer, Smiths Industries Aerospace and Defence Systems Ltd. 

Robert William WHEELER, Temporary Sub Officer, London Fire Brigade. 




1990, pp. 26.) 

162

Q.F.S.M. 



Brian William BUTLER, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Dennis Tyrone DAVIS, Chief Officer, Cheshire Fire Brigade. 

David Wyndham ENGLAND, Divisional Officer 1, Wiltshire Fire Brigade. 

George Ivor EVANS, Senior Fire Service Officer, Royal Air Force. 

John Walter PALMER, Senior Divisional Officer, West Midlands Fire Service. 

John SHERRINGTON, Deputy Chief Officer, Essex Fire Brigade. 

OVERSEAS. 

LI Kwok-Choi, C.P.M., Chief Fire Officer, Hong Kong Fire Service. 

SCOTTISH OFFICE 

Q.F.S.M. 


Andrew Neil MORRISON, Firemaster, Grampian Fire Brigade. 

C.B.E. 


December 1990. pp. 8.) 

James Roy WATSON, Q.F.S.M., Chief Officer, Lancashire Fire Brigade. 

O.B.E. 


1990. pp. 8.) 

Tom GREENWOOD, Senior Fire Prevention Inspector, H.M. Fire Service Inspectorate. 

M.B.E. 


1990. pp.10.) 

Ronald COOK, Assistant Divisional Officer, East Sussex Fire Brigade. 

Robert CUCKNEY, Senior Administrative Officer (Grade 7), London Fire Brigade. 

John Nigel SHILLABEER, Divisional Officer, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service 

B.E.M. 

British Empire Medal. (Civil Division) (Supplement to the L/G. 52382, 31 st December 1990. pp.20.) 

Eric BUTLER, Workshop Foreman, Durham Fire Brigade. 

Edward Arthur PITHER, Sub-Officer Retained, Hampshire Fire Service 

Joseph Raymond WYATT, Station Officer Retained, Avon Fire Brigade. 




Q.F.S.M. 



Jeremy Wilson BEECH, Chief Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. 

Adrian Robert CURRIE, Chief Officer, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Frank Noel DAVID, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

David Harry Blackwell SEAL, Divisional Officer III, Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

John Henry TAYLOR, Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 



C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. (Supplement to the L/G, 52563, 15 th June 

1991,) 

Dennis Frederick ROBINS, Q.F.S.M., Territorial Inspector (Grade 1), H.M.I. Fire Service Inspectorate. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G, 52563, 15 th June 1991, 

pp. 10.) 

Edward Spencer FAULKNER, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

163

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. (Supplement to the L/G. 52563, 15 th June 1991, 

pp. 13/15.) 

Barry George HOOK, Chief Administrative Officer, County of Avon Fire Brigade. 

Robert David THOMAS, Divisional Officer III, Gwynedd Fire Service. 




B.E.M. 


Victor Selwyn Thomas JAMES, Sub-Officer Retained, Powys Fire Service. 

Norman Peter WILSON, Sub-Officer Retained, Cleveland County Fire Brigade. 




1991, pp. 22.) 

Q.F.S.M. 


Neil Ernest GASKARTH, Deputy Chief Officer, Dorset Fire Brigade. 

David Michael PAIN, Deputy Chief Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

William Wallace Anderson REDFORD, Chief Officer, Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Gerald Patterson REID, Chief Officer, Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Robert Alexander STEVENSON, Deputy Chief Officer, East Sussex Fire Brigade. 

Peter John WHITEHOUSE, Deputy Chief Officer, Devon Fire and Rescue Service. 

Harry Thomas WILSON-WEBB, Senior Fire Service Officer, Defence Fire Service. 

CHANNEL ISLANDS 

Brian Ernest Roy MALLETT, Chief Officer, Jersey Fire Brigade. 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: Supplement to the L/G. 52767, 31 st 

December 1991, pp. 9. 

Henry Edward WRIGHT, Q.F.S.M., lately Chief Officer, South Yorkshire Fire Service. 

O.B.E. 


1991, pp. 11.) 

Peter REID, Q.F.S.M., Chief Officer, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

M.B.E. 


1991, pp. 13.) 

James Bernard CONNOR, Divisional Officer 1, London Fire Brigade. 

Robin Michael JENKINSON, Divisional Officer, Surrey Fire and Rescue Service. 

Richard PHYTHIAN, General Secretary, National Association of Fire Officers. 

B.E.M. 

British Empire Medal (Civil Division). Supplement to the L/G. 52767, 31 st December 1991, pp. 22. 

Anthony HANLON, Fireman, London Fire Brigade 

John Walker JOLLY, Sub Officer Retained, Grampian Fire Brigade. 

David John RENNELS, Sub Officer Retained, Gwent Fire Brigade. 

Watkin RICHARDS, Sub Officer Retained, Clwyd Fire Brigade. 

Michael Embleton STOTHARD, Fireman, London Fire Brigade. 

Gilbert Albert WHIFFIN, Sub Officer Retained, Cambridgeshire Fire Brigade. 

Roy Arthur Edward WILTSHIRE, Sub Officer Retained, Wiltshire Fire Brigade. 




Q.F.S.M. 



Eric Lloyd CLARK, Acting Deputy Chief Officer, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Miles William COTTERALL, Senior Divisional Officer, Merseyside Fire Brigade. 

164

Kenneth John LLOYD, Chief Officer, West Sussex Fire Brigade. 

Peter Alan George MORPHEW, Chief Officer, East Sussex Fire Brigade. 

Graham Edward MORRIS, Assistant Divisional Officer, Shropshire Fire Service. 

Alan Victor RULE, Chief Officer, Cumbria Fire Service. 


14th February 1992 


undermentioned in recognition of service within the operations in Northern Iraq and Southern Turkey. (Second supplement to 

the L/G. 52833, 14 th February 1992, pp. 2578.) 

B.E.M. 


Michael Anthony DOHERTY, Station Officer, Lancashire Fire Brigade. (A team of British firefighters went to Northern Iraq to 

assist the local population who were recovering from a devastating earthquake. Amongst other tasks, it is believed they helped to 

relay water supplies.) 

AWARDED THE QUEEN'S GALLANTRY MEDAL. (Supplement to the L.G, 52922, 15 th May 1992, pp. 8407.) 

Rodney Mark TAYLOR, Firefighter, South Glamorgan Fire and Rescue Service. 

On Monday, 8th July 1990 at 8.14 pm., a fire appliance of the South Glamorgan Fire and Rescue Service responded to a call to 

attend a road traffic accident. The appliance, carrying the Officer-in-Charge, who sat with the driver, with Fireman Taylor and a 

colleague seated in the rear, was itself involved in an accident with a car. The appliance overturned trapping the Officer-in-Charge 

and the driver. The ambulance service was summoned to attend. 

Fireman Taylor crawled through to the front of the vehicle to assist his Officer-in-Charge and the driver, while his colleague 

scrambled out to summon help. On reaching the two men, he found his Officer trapped and suspended by his leg, which was 

impaled by torn metal, and bleeding profusely. The Officer was also bearing down on the driver, who had suffered severe internal 

injuries, causing him considerable distress. Despite the cramped conditions, Fireman Taylor managed to relieve some distress to 

his Officer by crawling beneath him and in a doubled-over position supported the weight of his body upon his back. This also 

relieved pressure upon the driver who was lying beneath. Shortly after taking up this position, a fire broke out in the cabin caused 

by damaged electrical wiring. 

Despite the high risk of fire spread, through fractured fuel lines and severed brake pipes spilling substantial quantities of diesel 

fuel and brake fluid, Fireman Taylor refused to leave his colleagues. The fire was extinguished as Fireman Taylor continued to 

support and assist the two men. 

During the rescue operation Fireman Taylor made attempts to keep both men from slipping into unconsciousness by continually 

reassuring and talking to them. After approximately I5 minutes, the injured driver began to have difficulty in breathing and it 

became apparent he required oxygen. Owing to the restricted space in the cabin, only Fireman Taylor was able to administer it but 

as he was unable to move from his position of supporting his Officer on all fours, he held the oxygen mask to the driver's face by 

using only his teeth. Covered in blood and suffering under the weight and position of his Officer, Fireman Taylor's breathing also 

became restricted as he too became trapped as a result of his cramped position. He was administered oxygen by ambulance 

personnel The rescue operation took approximately 30 minutes before the two injured men and Fireman Taylor were rescued. 

The Officer made a good recovery but the driver died later in hospital. 

Fireman Taylor, with total disregard for his own safety, displayed gallantry of a high order and selfless devotion to duty, when, 

during fire rescue operation of two seriously injured and trapped colleagues in an overturned fire appliance, he assisted both men 

and remained with them until rescued, refusing to leave when a fire broke out in the cabin. The risk of fire spread was high due to 

the substantial spillage of diesel fuel and brake fluid resulting from the accident 

C.B.E. 


1992, pp.8). 

Roger Carlton PARAMOR, Chief Officer, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service. 

O.B.E. 


pp.8.) 

M.B.E. 


pp.12.) 

Edward Keith BICKLEY, Senior Divisional Officer, Merseyside Fire Brigade 

Evelyn, Mrs. HIRST, Principal Fire Control Officer, Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Anthony Richard PARR, Senior Divisional Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. Channel Tunnel Project Officer. (The construction of the 

Channel Tunnel presented Kent Fire Brigade with huge, unique, challenges. S.D.O. Parr headed a small team which rose to the 

stringent demands of this amazing feat of engineering). 

165

B.E.M. 

British Empire Medal (Civil Division) Supplement to the L/G. 52952, 13 th June 1992, pp.20. 

Alan CLARKE, Station Commander Retained, Lancashire Fire Brigade. 

David William CLARKE, Sub Officer Retained, Oxfordshire Fire Service. 

Graham Arthur DANCE, Brigade Photographer, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Edward James REYNOLDS, Sub Officer, Norfolk Fire Service. 

David Milton PALEY, Station Officer Retained, West Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

Gilbert Jones RODERICK, Sub Officer Retained, West Glamorgan Fire Service. 




1992, pp.25.) 

Q.F.S.M. 



Bernard Paul GRIMSHAW, Assistant Chief Officer, West Midlands Fire Service. 

Peter KNEALE, Assistant Chief Officer, West Yorkshire Fire Service. 

Kenneth John KNIGHT, Deputy Chief Officer, Devon Fire Service. 

Edward George PEARN, Assistant Chief Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

Eric Alfred PRIEST, Deputy Chief Officer, Cleveland County Fire Brigade. 

David Robin RICHARDS, Chief Officer, Hereford and Worcester Fire Brigade. 

Brian Gordon ROBINSON, Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND. 

John WHITE, Firemaster, Fife Fire and Rescue Service. 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. (Supplement to the L/G.53153, 31 st 


John Robert PEARSON, Q.F.S.M., County Chief Fire Officer, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G.53153, 31 st December 

1992, pp. 11.) 

Philip Arthur KILSHAW, Deputy Senior Fire Safety Inspector, H.M. Fire Service Inspectorate. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G.53153, 31 st December 

1992, pp. 13./15/15/16) 

Robert John Arthur DICK, Divisional Officer, Central Region Fire Brigade, Scotland. 

Hari HUGHES, lately Assistant Divisional Officer, Clwyd Fire Brigade. 

Bernard Henry Richard MUSSELL, Transport Manager, Dorset Fire Brigade. 

David John REEVES, Divisional Officer III, „D‟ Division Headquarters, West Midlands Fire Service. 

THE QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the British Empire Medal to the undermentioned: 

(Supplement to the L/G.53153, 31 st December 1992, pp. 21.) 

B.E.M. 


Graham Edward BAILEY, Leading Fireman, Ministry of Defence. 

Geoffrey Harold COX, Sub Officer, Isle of Wight Fire Service. 

Maurice Joseph DUNN, Station Officer Retained, Durham County Fire Brigade. 

Albert Henry HOLLAND, Station Officer Retained, Somerset Fire Brigade. 

Charles Desmond MAGEE, Sub Officer, Lisnaskea, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 

Charles Walker McKINNON, Volunteer Leading Firefighter, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

William PIERCE, Sub Officer Retained, Gwynedd Fire Service. 

Roy POVEY, Sub Officer Retained, Cheshire Fire Brigade. 

Stanley George SANDISON, Fireman Attendant, Tingwall Airport. 

Malcolm Victor TAYLOR, Station Officer Retained, Essex County Fire Service. 

William Henry TURNER, Sub Officer, Dungiven, Fire Authority for Northern Ireland. 



to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G.53153, 31 st December 1992, pp. 27.) 

Q.F.S.M. 


166


Andrew Edward BEST, Chief Officer, Merseyside Fire Brigade. 

Malcolm EASTWOOD, Chief Officer, Gloucestershire Fire Service. 

Terence Leslie GLOSSOP, Chief Officer, Gwent Fire Brigade. 

Peter Anthony GRIBBIN, Chief Officer, Greater Manchester County Fire Service. 

James Gordon RUSSEL, Chief Officer, Lancashire County Fire Brigade. 

Malcolm Alec SMITH, Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Alan WELLS, H.M. Inspector of Fire Service. 

David John WILLIAMS, Chief Officer, Mid Glamorgan Fire Service. 


C.B.E. 


1993, pp. 8.) 

Jeremy Wilson BEECH, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer of Kent. (By any standard, an outstanding C.F.O.) 

Alexander WINTON, Q.F.S.M., H.M. Chief Inspector of Fire Services for Scotland 

O.B.E. 


pp. 10.) 

Trevor BASSETT, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, Dorset Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 


pp. 13.) 

George Haylock ALMOND, Deputy County Fire Officer, Greater Manchester County Fire Service. 

Philip James ARNOLD, Assistant Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

David BINKS, Sub-Officer (Retained), North Yorkshire Fire Service. For services to the community in Yorkshire. 

Geoffrey Arnold BOOTH, Divisional Officer Grade 1, Surrey Fire and Rescue Service. 

George Michael Albert BOURN, lately Sub Officer (Retained), East Sussex Fire Brigade. 

Geoffrey Alexander CHIVERTON, Station Officer (Retained), Surrey Fire Service. 

Philip John COLLINS, Leading Firefighter, London Fire Brigade. For services to the community in Buckinghamshire. 

Peter HARRISON, Acting Station Officer, Guernsey Fire Brigade. For voluntary services to the community in Guernsey, Channel 

Islands. 

Donald Mathieson MACKENZIE, Volunteer Sub Officer, Highlands and Islands Fire Brigade. 

Martyn St John RADLEY, Station Officer (Retained), West Yorkshire Fire Service. 

John Cyrus THOMAS, Sub Officer (Retained), South Glamorgan County Fire Service. 




1993, pp. 26.) 

Q.F.S.M. 



John Arthur CLARK, Senior Divisional Officer, Durham Fire Brigade. 

John Michael CRAIG, Chief Officer, Wiltshire Fire Brigade. 

Gerald Franklin GOLDSACK, Chief Officer, Northamptonshire Fire Service. 

Allan Victor JONES, Chief Officer, Gwynedd Fire Service. 

Kenneth William RIGGS, Deputy Chief Officer, Cornwall County Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND 

Peter David SCOTT, Firemaster, Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade. 

2nd July 1993 

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the following awards of The George Medal, The Bar to the Queen's 

Gallantry Medal and the Queen's Gallantry Medal and for the publication in The London Gazette of the names of those shown 

below as having received an expression of Commendation for Brave Conduct:. (Supplement to the L/G. 53360, 2 nd July 1963, 

pp. 11211. The mention of an award of a Bar to the Q.G.M. refers to a member of the Royal Ulster Constabulary. 


David BURNS, Firefighter, West Midlands Fire Service. 


David SCOTT, Firefighter, West Midlands Fire Service. 

On Monday, 27th July 1992, at approximately 3.20 p.m. a fire broke out in a flat on the ninth floor of a twenty storey block. The 

fire service was summoned and four firefighters, wearing breathing apparatus, entered the flat. 

167

Shortly after entering the flat, there was a rapid development of the fire possibly caused by the ignition of toxic fumes and an 

inrush of air from a bedroom window. A flashover of fire occurred giving rise to a vortex of flame, likened to a jet engine 

exhaust, which funnelled from the bedroom into the entrance lobby of the flat and across the landing to a ventilation outlet. In the 

deteriorating conditions, one of the firefighters was forced to leave rapidly in a distressed condition with minor burns. 

Firefighter Burns was knocked to the floor outside the entrance door to the flat by the blast from the flashover and vortex. Two 

other firefighters standing in the hallway of the flat became disorientated in the whirlwind of smoke and fire. Both were forced to 

the floor and one, weakened by the blast, called out to Firefighter Burns for assistance. 

Without hesitation he entered the flat, located his colleague and lifted him to relative safety. Meanwhile as Firefighter Scott and 

another officer were preparing to enter the flat to rescue their remaining trapped colleague, a technical problem arose with the 

officer's breathing apparatus and he therefore looked to Firefighter Burns to accompany him in the rescue attempt. 

Despite having experienced the extreme intensity of the fire and well aware of the conditions they were likely to meet, Firefighter 

Burns did not hesitate to return to the flat with Firefighter Scott. The two officers found their trapped colleague in a collapsed 

state. Although by now the intensity of the fire had eased, his breathing apparatus set was so hot that neither rescuers could touch 

it despite wearing fireproof gloves. Notwithstanding the heat and its effect, both officers managed to rescue their colleague, still 

wearing his breathing apparatus, which made their rescue all the more difficult. Their colleague, suffering 60 per cent, burns, 

subsequently died. 

Firefighter Burns displayed gallantry of a very high order when, without regard to his own safety, by himself he rescued a 

colleague from a burning flat, when the fire was at its most intense, undoubtedly saving his life. Aware of the conditions and the 

intensity of the fire and the risk to life, he unhesitatingly returned to the flat a second time and, with Firefighter Scott, rescued 

another trapped colleague. 

Firefighter Scott displayed gallantry of a high order when, without regard to his own safety and the risk to life, he entered the 

burning flat, with Firefighter Burns, to rescue a trapped colleague who was seriously burned and very difficult to lift because his 

breathing apparatus was too hot to be removed. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G.53360, 2 nd July 1993, pp. 11214.) 

Philip James BERRY, Leading Firefighter, East Sussex Fire Brigade. 

Mark Edward BROWN, Firefighter, East Sussex Fire Brigade. 

For services in assisting the police in attempting to rescue a woman taken hostage by a man believed to be armed and dangerous 

who had set fire to the premises. The officers led the attack on the fire and without thought for their own safety entered the flat 

where they found the man semi-conscious. He was carried to safety and subsequently arrested. The woman was rescued by a 

police officer. 

Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct. (Supplement to the L/G.53360, 2 nd July 1993, pp. 11215.) 

Raymond Alan FRASER, Fireman, Yeovil, Somerset. 

For services in attempting to prevent an armed robbery taking place in a building society. Mr Fraser wrestled with the gunman 

and during the struggle the gun was discharged. As the robber broke free and fled, leaving the gun behind, Mr Frazer took up the 

chase and was able to attract the attention of two passing security guards who managed to apprehend the offender. 


THE QUEEN has been graciously pleased, in recognition of services rendered in connection with the Windsor Castle Fire, to 

make the following promotion in and appointment to, the Royal Victorian Order: Probably the only time this award has been 

made to serving members of the British Fire Service. A family honour, awarded solely at the discretion of the Monarch to 

recognise distinguished personal service to the Sovereign. (Supplement to the L/G. 53527, 31 st December 1993, pp. 4.) 

L.V.O. 

Royal Victorian Order 

To be a Lieutenant: Major Barrie Trevor EASTWOOD, M.V.O., M.B.E. 

M.V.O. To be a Member: Deputy County Fire and Emergency Planning Officer David John HARPER, Royal Berkshire Fire and 

Rescue Service. 

Victorian Medal (Silver). 

R.V.M. 

Senior Fire Control Officer Christopher Raymond GLENN, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Nancy Charlotte, Mrs. GREEN. (It is not clear if Mrs Green was a member of the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service). 

C.B.E. 



Graham MELDRUM, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, West Midlands Fire Service. For services to the Fire Services. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: ( Supplement to the L/G. 53527, 31 st December 

1993, pp. 12.) 

Maurice Victor JOHNSON, Chief Fire Officer, Oxfordshire Fire Service. 

Hector William ROBBIE, Deputy Firemaster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

168

M.B.E. 


1993, pp. 16.) 

Michael Anthony BROWN, Chief Fire Officer, Powys Fire Service. 

Barry BROWNING, Chief Fire Officer, Esso Petroleum Company Ltd. For services to Industrial Fire Safety. 

Brian William BURREL, Station Officer Retained, Cornwall County Fire Brigade. 

John Anthony CAIRNS, Leading Firefighter, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

William DAVISON, Station Officer, Tyne and Wear Fire Brigade. 

John Spence DICKSON, Assistant Divisional Officer, Tayside Fire Brigade. 

Peter GLOVER, Sub Officer Retained, Cleveland County Fire Brigade. 

Kenneth Charles HILDREW, Station Officer, London Fire Brigade and for services to charitable organisations 

William Robert HOLLAND, Chief Emergency Planning Officer, Merseyside Fire and Civil Defence Authority. 

Rodney James LANE, Assistant Divisional Officer, Devon Fire and Rescue Service. 

Michael Godfrey LOMBARD, Leading Firefighter Retained, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

Thomas William MIDDLETON, Firefighter, London Fire Brigade. 

Frederick Kenneth MOULTON, Sub Officer Retained, Dyfed County Fire Brigade. 

Patrick Joseph MURRAY, Sub Officer, Newtownhamilton Fire Station, South Amargh. 




Q.F.S.M. 

Queens's Fire Service Medal. 


David CARTWRIGHT, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Robin Lindsay Edward GRAHAM, Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Brian Michael HELLIN, Assistant Chief Officer, Dorset Fire Brigade. 

Eric Henry HOUNSLOW, Senior Divisional Officer, Hampshire Fire Brigade. 

James Borthwick MANUEL, Chief Officer, West Yorkshire Fire Service. 

Graham Martin SMITH, Deputy Chief Officer, Oxfordshire Fire Service. 


C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G 53696, 11 th June 

1994, pp. 10.) 

Nigel MUSSELWHITE, Q.F.S.M., Territorial Inspector of Fire Service. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: ( Supplement to the L/G 53696, 11 th June 1994, 

pp. 13.) 

Kenneth McNEILL, Q.F.S.M. For services to the Fire Service 

Garth Barrie SCOTFORD, Q.F.S.M., lately Chief Fire Officer, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. (Supplement to the L/G 53696, 11 th June 1994, 

pp. 19.) 

Christopher William GAUDION, Chief Fire Officer, Alderney. 

John Phillip GOSBY, Station Officer (Retained), Oxfordshire Fire Brigade. 

David Frederick GRAY, Assistant Director, Fire Protection Association. For services to Fire Safety. 

Michael John HINDS, Divisional Officer (Grade 1), Somerset Fire Brigade. 

Henry Alexander Mills KEDDIE, Station Officer, Grampian Fire Brigade. 

Murdo MacLENNAN, Sub-Officer (Retained), Strathclyde Fire Brigade 

Dennis Charles Arthur NEWMAN, Leading Firefighter (Retained), Kent Fire Brigade 

Robert Nicol SMITH, Sub-Officer (Retained), Tayside Fire Brigade. 

Howard John VALE, Sub Officer (Retained), Warwickshire Fire Service. 




1994, pp. 29.) 

Q.F.S.M. 



James Lynn ASHFIELD, Senior Divisional Officer, Royal Berkshire Fire Service. 

169

Kenneth Arthur HARRISON, Deputy Chief Officer, Humberside Fire Service. 

Edwin PATTERSON, Chief Fire Officer, Nottinghamshire Fire Service. 

Michael John PILLEY, Assistant Chief Officer, South Yorkshire Fire Service. 

Charles William SPENCE, Station Officer, Durham County Fire and Rescue Brigade. 

SCOTLAND. 

Robert GORDON, Deputy Firemaster, Highlands and Islands Fire Brigade. 

Awarded Queen's Gallantry Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 53720, 1 st July 1994, pp. 9470) 

Alexander Murray CAIRNIE, Retained Firefighter, Dumfries and Galloway Fire Brigade. 

For services in rescuing a senior officer who had been injured by an explosion at the scene of a fire. 

An explosion at a pheasant brooder house containing propane cylinders blew three firefighters, including Firefighter Cairnie, 

backwards and enveloped them in a wall of flame. As a result, a senior officer sustained serious injuries and was unable to move 

and Firefighter Cairnie was badly burnt. Despite the intense heat, a continuing series of explosions and his own injuries, he 

crawled towards the injured officer and dragged him clear until joined by other members of the fire crew. 

Awarded Queen's Gallantry Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 53720, 1 st July 1994, pp.9471.) 

George William COCKBURN, Retained Station Officer, Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade. 

For services in rescuing four injured crew members and attempting to rescue a fifth from a fire tender almost completely under 

water. On the way to attend a fire, the fire appliance was forced off a bridge by oncoming traffic and plunged approximately 40 

feet into the river where it rested on its side. 

Retained Station Officer Cockburn was in the front of the water tender when it plunged into the fast flowing river but managed to 

extricate himself. Hearing shouting from inside the rear section of the tender, he went immediately to the crew's assistance. 

Although the door to the cabin was initially jammed, he managed by sheer strength to force it open and succeeded in extracting 

four crew members, helping them onto the side of the tender which was just above water level. He then repeatedly dived into the 

bitterly cold, largely flooded main cab and by reaching through a partition he tried to help the driver trapped in the front section of 

the cabin which was under water. These efforts were unsuccessful as, unknown to Officer Cockburn, the driver was trapped by 

the steering wheel and the compaction of other parts of the cabin. 

Awarded Queen's Gallantry Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 53720, 1 st July 1994, pp .9472.) 

Kevin Russell MADDOX, Leading Firefighter, Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

For services in the rescue of a woman in danger of drowning. Mr Maddox crawled along a branch which was partly submerged in 

a swollen river, and by holding onto the woman he prevented her from being swept away. A passer by who attempted to help 

weakened the branch of the tree, but despite the risk of being swept away by the flood Mr Maddox continued to hold onto the 

woman until she was rescued on the arrival of a properly equipped fire crew. 


C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 53893, 30 th 

December 1994, pp 10.) 

George Michael THREADGOLD, Chief Fire Officer, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 53893, 30 th December 

1994, pp 15/16/17/17/19/19/22/25/25.) 

Trevor Clive ARTHURS, Station Officer (Retained), Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. 

John CLELAND, Assistant Divisional Officer, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

James Alfred COUZENS, lately Principal Administrative Officer, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Francis George DANCE, Group Fire Control Officer, Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Anthony Colin HILLIAR, Station Officer (Retained), Wiltshire Fire Brigade. 

John Robert HOWE, Senior Divisional Officer, Staffordshire Fire Service. 

Colin Francis McMANUS, Q.F.S.M., lately Commandant, Scottish Fire Service Training School. 

Harry SMITH, lately Station Officer (Retained), Lancashire County Fire Brigade. 

Patricia Ann, Mrs. THOMAS, Leading Fire Control Operator, Dyfed County Fire Brigade. 

Q.F.S.M. 

Queen's Fire Service Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 53893, 30 th December 1994, pp. 29.) 


Graham George EDWARDS, Chief Fire Officer, Cornwall Fire Brigade. 

John Harold HERRICK, Chief Fire Officer, Lincolnshire Fire Brigade. 

Jeffrey ORD, Chief Fire Officer, Northumberland Fire Service. 

Barry SANDHAM, Assistant Divisional Officer, Lancashire Fire Brigade. 

Mervyn John SHELDON, Chief Fire Officer, South Glamorgan Fire Service. 

SCOTLAND 

Derek Shepherd MARR, Firemaster, Tayside Fire Brigade. 

170

Queen's Commendation for Bravery. (Supplement to the L/G. 53955, 15 th February 1995, pp. 2163.) 

Roger Seymour WILLIS, Leading Firefighter (Retained), Cornwall County Fire Brigade 

For services in rescuing two motorists trapped by flood water in their car. 

Severe weather had caused widespread flooding. A fire appliance was dispatched from the fire station in response to a call that 

persons were trapped in a car at danger from flood water. On arrival, the crew were confronted with a rapidly deteriorating 

situation. 

A motor car with two occupants had been swept off the road by a torrent of flood water from the river which had burst its banks 

and swollen to a depth of eight feet above the surrounding field level. The vehicle had been swept from the road to become 

trapped against trees and was being buffeted by the flow and pressure of water and was in danger of overturning. The motorists 

were holding on to the car through open doors but were rapidly running out of strength. Initially, the firefighters were swept away 

by the force of the current in repeated attempts to reach the casualties from downstream. 

Leading Firefighter Willis fought his way upstream above the trapped vehicle. Diving into the turbulent current he struck out for 

the car and, secured by a line to his colleagues, he was able to grab hold of the stricken vehicle as the current carried him past. 

From the comparative safety of the car roof, he assessed the position of the motorists and in the light of their failing physical 

condition decided to carry out an immediate rescue. Taking the male motorist, who was approaching unconsciousness, in a bear 

hug, Leading Firefighter Willis instructed his colleagues to pull them to safety. Fighting against the current and the cold water, he 

repeated the process for the second motorist. 

C.B.E. 


1995, pp. 8.) 

No Fire Service entry. 

O.B.E. 


pp12/14) 

Ronnie KING, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, Dyfed County Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

John Barry STIFF, Q.F.S.M., lately Firemaster, Dumfries and Galloway Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

M.B.E. 


pp.14/16/16/17/18/19/22/23) 

Maurice Harold ALLEN, Non-operational Station Officer, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. For services to the Fire 


Derek Stanley CARR, lately Sub-Officer (Retained), Durham County Fire and Rescue Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Ivan Samuel CASKEY. For services to the Fire Service. 

William James ELLERY, Station Officer (Retained), Dorset Fire Brigade. For services to the FireService. 

Alexander Robert GRANT, Radio Officer, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. For services tothe Fire Service. 

Miss Jane Elizabeth Mary HIDE, Personal Secretary, Merseyside Fire and Civil Defence Authority. For services to the Fire 


John NICHOLLS, Station Officer (Retained), Cornwall County Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Michael O'MAHONY, Sub-Officer, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Miss Patricia Anne SMITH, Divisional Administration Officer, Humberside Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

David SPENCER, lately Her Majesty's Inspector of Fire Services. For services to the Fire Service. 




1995, pp.28) 


Q.F.S.M. 


Martin Sean COFFEY, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. 

Kenneth Jardine GOOD, lately Station Officer, Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Kenneth HORN, Divisional Officer (Grade III), Tyne and Wear Metropolitan Fire Brigade. 

Alexander McCONACHIE, lately Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Durham County Fire and Rescue Brigade. 

Philip QUINN, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Clwyd Fire Service. 

Thomas Lorimer Henderson WYLIE, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

SCOTLAND 

John JAMESON, Firemaster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

Michael SCOTT, lately Assistant Firemaster, Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade. 

Queen's Commendation for Bravery. (Supplement to the L/G. 54088, 30 th June 1995, pp. 9054.) 

Anthony Kenneth William HOCKING, Leading Firefighter, Surrey Fire and Rescue Service. 

171

For services in rescuing an elderly man from a burning room. 

From his garden Leading Firefighter Hocking saw smoke billowing from the upstairs windows of the house of a very elderly 

disabled neighbour. He ran to the house, and on opening the front door was confronted by thick smoke. He noticed that the glow 

of the fire was in the lounge area to his right and knew that his neighbour was most likely to be found in this room. He crawled on 

hands and knees across the small hall to the entrance of the lounge from where he could see that his neighbour was badly alight in 

his armchair in the left hand comer of the room. 

Mr Hocking withdrew to the front door to take in some fresh air, and then re-entered the hall and made his way back to the lounge. 

Because of the build up of smoke, he kept as low as possible, and was eventually forced to crawl on his stomach. When he 

reached the armchair, he managed to lower his neighbour to the floor and after turning him onto his back pulled him backwards 

out of the house. Outside, he and his wife were able to extinguish the flames on his neighbour's clothes, who was severely burnt 

and in severe pain. Mr Hocking administered first aid until the arrival of the Fire Brigade and the Ambulance Service. 

Queen's Commendation for Bravery. (Supplement to the L/G. 54088, 30 th June 1995, pp. 9055.) 

Michael Stephen HOLDER, Leading Firefighter, Humberside Fire Brigade. 

For services in rescuing a casualty in twenty feet of water. 

A call was received by the Fire Brigade reporting that a man had fallen into a harbour dock. Two fire appliances were mobilised. 

On arrival, Leading Firefighter Holder was informed by a group of workmen that a man had fallen into the water and sunk below 

the surface some four or five minutes previously. 

There was no sign of the casualty, only a lifebelt floating on the surface. Leading Firefighter Holder decided that there was a 

possibility that the man could still be alive. To attempt a rescue he removed his fire kit, and was provided with a Breathing 

Apparatus set (one not designed for underwater search and rescue), and had a rescue line tied around him. He was lowered into 

the water and then swam down the base of the dock wall, a distance of approximately twenty feet. At the bottom of the dock in 

zero visibility, he began to search for the casualty moving to the right and away from the dock wall. After failing to locate the 

casualty he attempted, without success, to make his way back to the dock wall. He re-surfaced and swam back to the point where 

the man had last been sighted. After re-submerging, he swam back down to the base of the dock wall and resumed his search, 

quickly discovering the casualty on the bottom of the dock. By pulling on the rescue line he indicated to the fire crew that he 

required assistance, and with one arm holding the casualty was helped back to the surface by his colleagues. Another member of 

the fire crew was lowered into the water to help keep the casualty afloat. 

Despite feeling both tired and cold, he removed his Breathing Apparatus face mask and applied artificial respiration to the 

casualty. The other crew member attached a rescue sling to the casualty and both of them were lifted out of the water by the 

attending hydraulic platform. Neither Leading Firefighter Holder nor his crew were at the time trained or equipped for underwater 

rescue. 



C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order, (Supplement to the L/G.54255, 30 th 


Peter Anthony GRIBBEN, Q.F.S.M., lately County Fire Officer and Chief Executive, Greater Manchester Fire and Civil Defence 

Authority. For services to the Fire Service. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G.54255, 30 th December 

1995, pp. 11.) 

William Wilson DUNLOP, Q.F.S.M., lately Chief Fire Officer, Tyne and Wear Metropolitan Fire Brigade. For services to the 

Fire Service. 

William KEYS. For services to the Fire Service. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G.54255, 30 th December 

1995, pp. 15./17/21/23) 

John William BISHOP, Operational Fire Officer and Non-Operational Station Officer, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. 

For services to the Fire Service. 

Kevin FISHER, Sub Officer (Retained), West Yorkshire Fire and Civil Defence Authority. For services to the Fire Service 

John Alexander FRASER, lately Retained Sub-Officer, Highland and Islands Fire Brigade. 


Terence Graham MORLEY, Sub-Officer (Retained), Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Agnes, Mrs. REED, lately Cook, Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Kenneth Edwin ROSE, General Manager, Chief and Assistant Chief Fire Officers Association. For services to the Fire Service. 

Geoffrey Christopher SAYERS, Station Officer (Volunteer), Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire 


John Graham SMITH, Firefighter, Greater Manchester. County Fire Service. For humanitarian services in Romania. 


172


to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G.54255, 30 th December 1995, pp. 28.) 

Q.F.S.M. 



Stephen BROADHURST, Station Officer, Merseyside Fire Brigade. 

Colin Leonard BRUM, lately Senior Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

William Archibald BUSHBY, Assistant Chief Officer, Hampshire Fire Service. 

David John HUTCHINGS, Divisional Officer I, Avon Fire Brigade. 

David Arthur JERROM, Assistant Chief Officer, West Midlands Fire Service. 

Martin KITCHEN, Chief Fire Officer, Surrey Fire Service. 

SCOTLAND. 

Allan Smith WHITTON, Assistant Firemaster, Central Region Fire Brigade. 

C.B.E. 


1996, pp .9.) 

Brian Gordon ROBINSON, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. For 

services to the Fire Service. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: ( Supplement to the L/G. 54427, 15 th June 1996, 

pp. 10./11.) 

Ian Simpson Thomson ADAM, Q.F.S.M., Firemaster, Central Scotland Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Dennis Tyrone DAVIS, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, Cheshire Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Alan Roy GRAY, Chief Fire Officer, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

M.B.E. 


pp. 15/18/19/.) 

Gordon Forman BLACKIE, Retained Station Officer, Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Miss Margaret Isabel GIBB, Fire Control Officer, Tayside Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Susan, Mrs. IRVING, Fire Control Officer, Lincolnshire Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Gruffudd Hefin JONES, Leading Firefighter, North Wales Fire Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Derek KENT, Sub Officer (Retained), Humberside Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

John Ian ROBERTS, Temporary Sub Officer, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. For services to the Fire Service. 

Harry Michael STEERE, Sub Officer (Retained), Cleveland Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Michael John WHITE, Firefighter, Devon Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 



of The Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned. (Supplement to the L/G. 54427, 14 th June 

1996, pp. 28.) 

Q.F.S.M. 


Peter John COOMBS, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. 

Brian Anthony HIGTON, Temporary Assistant Divisional Officer, Derbyshire Fire Service. 

Miss Margaret Jean PENTON, Principal Fire Control Officer, West Midlands Fire Service. 

Valerie Ann, Mrs. PLUCK, Principal Fire Control Officer, Essex Fire Service. 

Andrew John WALTERS, Chief Fire Officer, Avon Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND. 

James COYLE, Assistant Firemaster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

Colin CRANSTON, Firemaster, Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade. 


O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. Supplement to the L/G. 54625, 31 st December 

1996, pp. 10. 

Adrian Robert CURRIE, Q.FS.M, Chief Fire Officer, Devon Fire and Rescue Service, For services to the Fire Service. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. Supplement to the L/G. 54625, 31 st December 

1996, pp. 19. 

Arthur William HOWELL, leading Firefighter, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. For services to the Fire Service 

173

Marion, Mrs HUNTER. For services to the Fire Service. 

Peter Reginald LEWIS, Sub-Officer (Retained), North Wales Fire Service. For services to the Fire Service 

Leslie George MARDELL, Administrative Officer, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. For services to the Fire Service. 

Thomas MacDOUGALL, Retained Sub-Officer, Tayside Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

David QUINNEY, Station Officer, Central Scotland Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service 

Barry SCAPLEHORN, lately Firefighter, Suffolk County Fire Service. For services to the Fire Services Benevolent Fund 

John Kenneth STEWART, lately Retained Sub-Officer, Grampian Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service 

John Edwin THOMAS, Leading Firefighter, West Midlands Fire Service. For services to the Fire Service 

Neil Dennis THOMPSON, Sub-Officer (Retained), Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 



to the undermentioned. Supplement to the L/G. 54625, 31 st December 1996, pp. 27. 

Q.F.S.M. 



Peter John DALE, Chief Fire Officer, Staffordshire Fire Service. 

Alan Kenneth DIXON, Assistant Divisional Officer, Cleveland Fire Brigade. (A rare example of this honour being awarded to a 

person of lesser rank than a Divisional Office or above.) 

Kenneth George MONK, lately Chief Fire Officer, Derbyshire Fire Service. 

Alan Keith SEAMAN, lately Temporary Chief Fire Officer, South Yorkshire Fire Service. 


Raymond MOORE, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Northern Ireland Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND 

John CLENAGHAN, Divisional Officer Grade 1, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

Alexander James LOBBAN, Firemaster, Grampian Fire Brigade. 

15th April 1997 

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the award of The Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to 

the undermentioned: Supplement to the L/G. 54736, 15 th April 1997, pp. 4475. 


QFSM. 

(To be dated 24th March 1997) 

Barrington Charles SEARLE, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: Supplement to the L/G. 54794, 14 th June 

1997, pp. 9. 

Andrew Neil MORRISON, Q.F.S.M., Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Fire Services for Scotland. For services to the Fire 


O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: Supplement to the L/G. 54794, 14 th June 1997, 

pp. 13. 

Alfred Henry THOMPSON. Chief Fire Officer, County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Brigade. For services to the 


M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: Supplement to the L/G. 54794, 14 th June 1997, 

pp. 13. 

Philip James BATES, lately Acting Chief Fire Officer, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Robert William BERTRAM, Assistant Divisional Officer, Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service and 

for humanitarian services in Romania. 

David GETTY. For services to the Fire Service. 

Susan, Mrs. PARKE-HATTON, Principal Fire Control Officer, Lancashire County Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Alastair Ian MacLEAN, Retained Sub-Officer, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service and to the community. 

Kenneth Carol FERRYMAN, Q.F.S.M. For services to the Regional Burns Centre, Pinderfields Hospital, Wakefield 

Peter Brian SKEWS, Station Officer (Retained), Cornwall County Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

David William SULLY, lately Station Officer (Retained), Somerset Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service 

Robert Frederick John WAINWRIGHT, Volunteer Leading Firefighter, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services 

to the Fire Service. 

14th June 1997 THE QUEEN has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration of Her Majesty's Birthday, to 

approve the award of The Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the 

L/G. 54794, 14 th June 1997, pp. 28.) 

174

Q.F.S.M. 



Colin CUNLIFFE, lately Assistant Divisional Officer, Lancashire County Fire Brigade. 

Norman Staines DICKERSON, Chief Fire Officer, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Roger Anthony GRAHAM, Divisional Officer 1, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Peter Michael HOLLAND, Chief Fire Officer, Bedfordshire County Fire and Rescue Service. 

Bryan Eric SMITH, Chief Fire Officer, Norfolk Fire Service. 

William George WELSH, Senior Divisional Officer, Kent Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND. 

David Anthony CLARK, Assistant Firemaster, Fife Fire and Rescue Service. 

Andrew RUSSELL, Firemaster, Dumfries and Galloway Fire Brigade. 

John Chapman Gray TAIT, Sub Officer, Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade. 

14th November 1997 

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the following awards of the George Medal and The Queen's Gallantry 

Medal and for the publication in the London Gazette of the names of those shown below as having received an expression of 

Commendation for Bravery. (Supplement to the L/G. 54948, 14 th November 1997, pp. 12819.) 


Roderick McKenzie NICOLSON, Firefighter, Tayside Fire Brigade (deceased). 

For services in rescuing two men from a chemical silo. 

The fire service was called to a chemical plant after two men had become trapped in a soda ash silo which they were intending to 

clean, even though it had not been fully emptied of its contents. The two men had been sucked downwards as the silo's valve was 

opened by a colleague outside, in order to empty the remaining store of soda ash before they could start to clean away the deposits 

on the inner walls of the silo. They had sunk deeply into the remaining pool of ash, which had stabilised as soon as the valve had 

been re-closed. 

Firefighter Nicolson was instructed to enter the silo via a narrow hatchway at the top. He found he was unable to get through the 

hatch whilst wearing his breathing apparatus and so he was ordered to remove it. He then entered the silo and descended to the 

foot of the internal ladder. His breathing apparatus was then lowered down to him on a rope although he did not put it on. After 

Firefighter Nicolson had reported the situation to colleagues, ropes were passed down and placed around the two trapped men to 

secure them and prevent their sinking further. 

After some time and discussion, it was decided that it would be too dangerous to re-open the silo's bottom valve, for fear that the 

suction would endanger the trapped men, and that a hole should be cut in the side of the silo to facilitate a rescue. As the cutting 

proceeded there was a, non-consequential, fall of loose ash from the sides of the silo and one of the trapped men was buried by it. 

Firefighter Nicolson, without thought to his own safety, immediately jumped from the ladder onto the surface of the soda ash and 

started digging it away from the face of the trapped man. 

This required great effort and urgent action. After making sure the man could breathe, Firefighter Nicolson placed his body in a 

curved position over the man's face to prevent any further fall from burying the trapped man. At that moment, perhaps as he tried 

to straighten his body or when the trapped man tried to obey orders from the supervising officer to hold onto Firefighter Nicolson, 

the soda ash at the bottom of the silo started to move, and Firefighter Nicolson was sucked downwards and buried by it. 

Despite rescue attempts by colleagues, Firefighter Nicolson lost his life by suffocation—the two cleaners were both rescued alive, 

one only because of Firefighter Nicolson's urgent and risky rescue action. 



The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to award the Royal Victorian Medal (Silver) to the undermentioned: 

Royal Victorian Medal (Silver). (Supplement to the L/G. 54993, 31 st December 1997, pp. 5.) 

Marshall SMITH, lately Senior Fire Prevention Officer, Windsor Castle. 

C.B.E. 



John SHERRINGTON, Q.F.S.M., lately Chief Fire Officer, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire 


O.B.E. 


1997, pp. 10.) 

Graham William BUTLER, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Tyne and Wear Metropolitan Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire 


M.B.E. 


1997, pp. 17.) 

175

Michael David EBBORN, Firefighter, Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Services 

National Benevolent Fund. (Now ‗Firefighters Charity‘). 

Eric HAINES, Sub-Officer (Retained), South Wales Fire Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Edward Alexander KOTLEWSKI, Retained Sub-Officer, Fife Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Peter LA VINE, Sub-Officer, West Yorkshire Fire and Civil Defence Authority. For services to the Fire Service and to the 

community. 

Robert Eamonn MAGEE. For services to the Fire Service. 

Paul William NEWARK, lately Sub-Officer, Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Anthony PEARCE, Auxiliary Coastguard in Charge, Her Majesty's Coastguard, St. Davids and Sub Officer in charge, St. Davids 

Fire Station. For services to Safety at Sea and to the Fire Service 

Barry John SARGENT, Firefighter, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. For services to the Fire Service and to the 

community. 

Sydney TAYLOR. For services to the National Association of Retired Firefighters. 

Brian George TURNBULL, Sub-Officer (Retained), County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Brigade. For services to the 



The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the award of The Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to 

the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 54993, 31 st December 1997, pp. 10.) 

Q.F.S.M. 



John Bryan ACEY, lately Divisional Officer, Humberside Fire Brigade. 

Alan Ronald HOUSE, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Raymond HUGHES, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Tyne and Wear Metropolitan Fire Brigade. 

Peter James JONES, Chief Fire Officer, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. 

SCOTLAND 

Gerald Austen Ronald DUNN, Assistant Firemaster, Dumfries and Galloway Fire Brigade. 

Donald MACINNES, Assistant Firemaster, Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade. 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G 55155, 15 th. June 

1998 pp. 9. ) 

John JAMESON, Q.F.S.M., Firemaster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G 55155, 15 June 1998 pp. 

11. ) 

Jeffrey GODDARD, Chief Fire Officer, Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Robert John KING, Chief Fire Officer, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Rescue Service. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G 55155, 15 th . June 1998, 

pp. 15/16./18/19/21/22/24. ) 

Robert ANDERSON, lately retained Sub Officer, Dumfries and Galloway Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service 

Hugh CAMERON, Retained Station Officer, Highlands and Islands Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service and to the 

community 

Terence Charles DUNMORE, Sub Officer, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service 

Robin HOFFMAN, Q.F.S.M., Sub Officer, (Retained), South Wales Fire Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Christopher William JAMES, Sub Officer (Retained), Cheshire Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Brigade. 

Wilfred Charles JONES, Station Officer (Retained), Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire 

Services and to Young People. 

Michael George NANKERVIS, Station Officer, Cornwall County Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Maurice Edward NEWBOLT, Engineering Manager. For services to the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service. 

Linton SELFRIDGE. For services to the Fire Service. 

Colin Anthony TURNER, Sub Officer (Retained), North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 



1998 pp. 27 ) 

Q.F.S.M. 



Richard BULL, Chief Fire Officer, Tyne and Wear Metropolitan Fire Brigade. 

Laurence Arthur GILL, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. 

176

Michael HARRIS, Station Officer, Merseyside Fire Brigade. 

David John O'DWYER, Chief Fire Officer, Hereford and Worcester Fire Brigade. 

Brian Eric PATTYSON, Divisional Officer III, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

SCOTLAND. 

Robert Martin BROWN, Assistant Firemaster, Tayside Fire Brigade. 

Nigel Henry CAMPION, Firemaster, Fife Fire and Rescue Service. 

Andrew John EARLY, Assistant Firemaster, Central Scotland Fire Brigade. 

20th November 1998 

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the following awards of The Queen's Gallantry Medal publication in The 

London Gazette of the names of those shown below as having received an expression of Commendation for Bravery. 

(Supplement to the L/G 55316, 20 th November1998, pp. 12660. ) 

Clearly, not an award to the Fire Service but a most interesting citation. Doubtless, Mr Davies actions were invaluable and the 

Incident Commannder must have welcomed his advice and intimate knowledge of the site, its contents and the fixed instalations. 

He even arrived in style! 

The Queen's Gallantry Medal. 

Kenneth DAVIES, Civilian. 

For assisting the Fire Service and helping thereby to safeguard the lives of the fire crews, in fighting a blaze at a Liquefied 

Petroleum Gas supply depot. 

On 28th December 1996 fire broke out at a Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) supply depot at Aiskew, North Yorkshire. Seeing the 

fire from the air, Mr Davies, an engineer with Calor Gas with experience of bulk storage installations and safety drills, landed his 

glider and went to offer assistance to the Fire Brigade who had been at the scene for around three hours. The blaze was well 

established and some 200 gas cylinders had exploded in the first hour, and others were still likely to do so and be propelled into 

the air. The fire was being fed from the ruptured supply lines from two 30 tonne storage tanks, which were by then completely 

engulfed in flames Mr Davies volunteered to assist the Fire Brigade in assessing the position from a hydraulic platform and then 

by a closer inspection from the edge of the site. From this it was decided, with the incident commander, that the only way to 

reduce the fire and therefore remove the threat of a massive explosion of the main tanks would be to shut off the supply valves 

mounted on the two bulk storage tanks at the rear of the site Mr Davies again volunteered to do this, despite the acute danger from 

the fire and risk of explosion. 

Because of the intense heat, the incident commander decided to use hand held water jets to provide a protective "shield" for the 

firefighters so that they could move towards the tanks. After one and a half hours of preparation, involving briefing and equipping 

the fire teams, two teams of firefighters, with one backup team and Mr Davies, entered the site. Using high pressure water they 

drove a tunnel through the intense fire, and gradually moved forward over a surface of burning and burnt out LPG cylinders until 

they reached the eight foot sloped wall that surrounded the two bulk storage tanks. They then had to scramble over the wall into a 

two foot wide corridor between the wall and the tanks. The flames then had to be pushed back by further jets of water so that Mr 

Davies could reach, and close, the valves on the first tank. As he did this, the intensity of the fire and heat increased and it became 

clear that the valve on the second tank had to be shut down also, and quickly. 

One of the spray teams of firefighters was detached, with Mr Davies, to tackle the second tank. They inched their way along the 

narrow corridor towards it, where Mr Davies managed to shut down the valve. Because only one team could be spared to spray 

water at this time, the intensity of heat facing Mr Davies was even greater than before, and burned the hair on his face. 

Once the valve had been shut off the firefighters and Mr Davies slowly worked their way back towards the other team, and then all 

made their way out of the site. It was only at this stage that the fire started to decrease, Mr Davies' efforts prevented a massive 

explosion and greatly reduced the threat of loss of life and injury to the firefighters who were seeking to protect built up and 

shopping areas, respectively 50 and 400 metres from the site boundaries 


O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G 55354, 30 th December 

1998, pp. 9. ) 

Edward George PEARN, Q.F.S.M., H.M. Inspector of Fire Services (Grade II) H.M. Fire Service Inspectorate, Home Office. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G 55354, 30 th December 

1998, pp. 9/17/18/19/21/21/23. ) 

Alan HOPPER. For services to the British Fire Services Association. 

Kenneth Wyn JONES, Station Officer (Retained), North Wales Fire Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

John Thomas MARTIN, Assistant Firemaster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Anthony Cecil PRICE, Sub Officer (Retained), Hereford and Worcester Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Roger Quentin SAUNDRY, Sub Officer (Retained), Cornwall County Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

John Jackson WILLACY, lately Sub Officer (Retained), Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 


Q.F.S.M. (Supplement to the L/G 55354, 30 th December 1998, pp.26.) 

177


Brian AIREY, lately Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Merseyside Fire Brigade. 

Michael Leslie Jack KERNAN, Staff Officer to the Commandant, Fire Service College. 

Graham John TUMMEY, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Robert John Percy WEBB, Principal Control Officer, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. 

SCOTLAND 

Miss Elizabeth McMURDO, Senior Fire Control Operator, Fife Fire and Rescue Service. 

James Fullerton NAPIER Sub-Officer, Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade. 



C.B.E 


December 1999, pp. 9/10/17.) 

Malcolm EASTWOOD, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer. For services to the Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Peter Alan George MORPHEW, Q.F.S.M., H.M. Senior Inspector of Fire Services, Home Office. 

O.B.E. 


1999, pp. 14./15) 

Ian Henry KEER, Chief Fire Officer. For services to the Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Derek Shepherd MARR, Q.F.S.M., Firemaster, Tayside Fire Brigade, For services to the Fire Service 

John Derek TERRY, Chief Fire Officer. For services to the Avon Fire Brigade. 

M.B.E. 


1999, pp. 20/21/23/25/27/30/34.) 

Michael Broadbent ATKINSON, Volunteer Leading Firefighter. For services to the North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. 


Paul Weston BRAGG, Sub Officer, Staffordshire Fire Rescue Service. For services to Fire Safety Education. 

Colin BRERETON. For services to Fire Prevention. 

Thomas Mason CROFTS, Sub Officer (Retained), Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Fire Service Training. 

David GOBEN, Firefighter, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service National Benevolent Fund. 

Wendy HUBBARD, Higher Executive Officer, Fire Service College, Home Office. 

John Norman MacDONALD, Retained Station Officer, Highland and Islands Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service and to 

the community. 

William Neish MacMARTIN, Sub-Officer, Central Scotland Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service and to the 

International Rescue Corps. 

James Andrew OWENS,, Firefighter, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. For charitable services in Port Glasgow. 

Cynthia Bernadette, Mrs. PHILLIPS, Sub Officer, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Kenneth REID, Sub-Officer, Fife Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service and to the community in St. 

Andrew‟s. 

Sydney WEBSTER, Firefighter, Merseyside Fire Brigade. For services to Fire Safety Education. 

David Ernest WOOD, Firefighter, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service National Benevolent 

Fund. 

31 st December 1999 

Q.F.S.M. 

Queen’s Fire Service Medal. (Supplement to the L.G. 55710 , 31 st December 1999, pp. 37.) 


The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the award of The Queen’s Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service 

to the undermentioned 


Q.F.S.M. 

Norman David BARROW, Station Officer (Retained), Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. 

John Patrick GAUNT, lately Chief Fire Officer, Defence Fire Services. 

Eric ROBINSON, Station Officer (Retained), Cumbria Fire Service. 

David Anthony TURNER, Chief Fire Officer, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service. 

Alan Christopher John WROCLAWSKI, Assistant Chief Fire Officer (Fire Safety), Kent Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND 

Angus Alexander FERRIER, Retained Sub-Officer, Fife Fire and Rescue Service. 

Andrew STEWART, Assistant Firemaster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

David Augustine WILLIAMS. Firemaster, Grampian Fire Brigade. 


178

John Harrison MACAUGHAN, Senior Divisional Officer (Executive Staff Officer), Belfast Fire Brigade 

Queen’s Commendation for Bravery. (Supplement to the London Gazette 55799, 24 th March 2000, pp. 3343.) 

Paul Geoffrey STUBBLES, Fire-fighter, Somerset Fire Brigade. 

Paul Anthony WILLIAMS. Fire-fighter, Somerset Fire Brigade. 

For their actions in saving the life of a woman who had fallen into a river during severe flooding. 

On 6th August 1997, a team of fire fighters was pumping floodwater from the cellar of a public house. Heavy rainfall in the area 

over a period of three days had brought severe flooding and the river nearby had burst its banks, bringing the level of the water 

just below the top of the arch of a small bridge that spanned it. 

In response to an alert, the team ran to the river where they saw a women up to her neck in water, clinging to the side of the bridge 

to prevent herself being swept away by the strong current. Fire-fighter Stubbles was tied to a rescue line and lowered over the 

parapet of the bridge into the water by another fire fighter. He grabbed the woman‟s left wrist and held onto her in order to stop 

her being washed away, whilst she continued to hold onto the bridge with her other hand. 

Meanwhile, Fire-fighter Williams entered the river from the riverbank tied to a rescue line held by another fire fighter on the bank. 

He attempted to reach the woman, but was prevented from doing so by the strong current. He made a second attempt and had 

nearly reached her when she lost her grip on the bridge. Firefighter Stubbles was also losing his grip on the woman and was in 

danger of being swept under the bridge himself. With only a single firefighter holding his line he could not be pulled back unless 

he released the woman. 

Seeing this difficulty, another firefighter entered the water and grabbed the woman‟s free hand but began to sink under the water. 

As he was unsecured by a line, he sought to save himself by grabbing Firefighter Williams rescue line. 

As the woman and the two fire fighters disappeared below the surface Fire-fighter Stubbles managed to keep hold of the woman‟s 

left wrist and succeeded in pulling hold of the woman‟s left wrist and succeeded in pulling her back to the surface. Fire-fighter 

Williams and the third fire officer were hauled to the bank on fire-fighter Williams‟ rescue line by the fire fighters on the bank. 

Seeing the urgency of the situation, Fire-fighter Williams re-entered the water a little upstream, and allowed himself to drift with 

the current towards the woman. When he reached her, he took a firm hold of her body but as Firefighter Stubbles released his 

grip, both Fire-fighter Williams and the woman were dragged below the surface of the water by the current. Fire-fighter Williams 

did not release his hold on the woman and both were pulled on the rescue line to safety on the bank. Fire-fighter Stubbles was 

similarly pulled to safety onto the bridge. 

Queen’s Commendation for Bravery. (Supplement to the London Gazette 55799, 24 th March 2000, pp. 3343.) 

Andrew Mark WEATHERILL. Fire-fighter, North Yorkshire Fire Brigade. 

For attempting to save the life of a child trapped inside a car that had become submerged in a flooded quarry. 

A fire brigade crew was called to a quarry into which a car with a young child inside had rolled and become submerged under 

approximately seven metres of water. Fire-fighter Weatherill was not trained in under-water rescue and initially he attempted 

surface dives in order to reach the vehicle. But he was unsuccessful owing to the depth of the water, poor visibility and lack of air. 

He then improvised some equipment and re-entered the water wearing fire-fighting breathing apparatus and carrying a winch cable 

with a large limestone boulder as ballast. This weight counter-balanced the air in the breathing equipment, which was not 

designed for use under water. 

He walked some three to four metres from the bank, becoming completely submerged. Despite a visibility of only 30 cms, he 

managed to find the car, lying on its roof. He then secured the winch cable to the rear axle of the car, before finding and opening 

the rear door. With his shoulder wedged under the upper sill of the car, he released the boulder and began to search the car 

interior. At first he could not find the child and so climbed into the car to look further. 

He finally found her in the front foot well and, gathering her in his arms, left the vehicle by the rear door. The buoyancy of the 

breathing apparatus brought them both to the surface where they were taken ashore by other members of the supporting firefighting 

team. 

The girl was taken to hospital, but unfortunately died a few days later. 

R.V.O. 

Royal Victorian Medal (Silver). (Supplement to the London Gazette 55879, 19 th June 2000, pp.4.) 

Leslie CHAMPION, lately Fire Surveillance Officer, Buckingham Palace. 

Terence CLIFFORD, lately Senior Fire Precautions Officer, 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the London Gazette 55879, 19 th 

June 2000, pp.8/11.) 

Martin KITCHEN, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, Surrey Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service 

George Edwin GUY, Head, Fire Policy Unit, Home Office. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Excellent Order: (Supplement to the London Gazette 55879, 19 th June 

2000, pp.14/16/17/18/19/20/21/23.) 

Alan Frederick BARTON. For services to the Fire Services National Benevolent Fund. 

Roger Wallace DENLEY, Station Officer (Retained), Cornwall County Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service and to the 

community. 

179

Roger Granville HALL. Sub Officer (Retained) Hereford, Worcester Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

David Stewart HUGHES. For service to the Fire Service. 

Matthew JOHNSTON. For services to the Fire Service. 

Sarah Campbell, Mrs. MacKINNON, Station Cook, Ardrossan Fire Station, Ayrshire. For services to the Fire Service. 

John Frederick MEACE. For services to the Fire Brigades National Benevolent Fund. 

Kathleen, Mrs.ROBJOHNS. Principal Fire Control Officer, Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Charles Fraser WALKER, Officer-in-Charge, Lockerbie Fire Station For services to the Dumfries and Galloway Fire Brigade. 

Gerard WARREN. For services to the Fire Service. 

17th June 2000. 

ENGLAND and WALES. 

Q.F.S.M. 

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration of Her Majesty’s Birthday, to approve the award 

of The Queen’s Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the London Gazette 

55879, 19 th June 2000, pp.26.) 

John Whetham CART, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, West . Sussex Fire Brigade. 

Neil HAY, Firefighter, London Fire and Civil Defence Authority. (It is most unusual for this award to be made to a person of 

firefighter rank. What a joy – well done! A few more please.) 

John Paul JUDD, Assistant County Fire Officer, Greater Manchester County Fire Service. 

Alan Charles McCORMACK, Chief Fire Officer, East Sussex Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND 

Brian ALLAWAY, Deputy Firemaster, Lothian and . Borders Fire Brigade. 

David KENNEDY, Deputy Firemaster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 



C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the London Gazette 56070, 

30 th December 2000, pp.7.) 

George Haylock ALMOND, M.B.E., D.L., County Fire Officer and Chief Executive, Greater Manchester County Fire Service. 


O.B.E. 


December 2000, pp.11/11.) 

Donald GRANT, Q.F.S.M., Commandant, Scottish Fire Service Training School. 

David John HARPER, M.V.O., Chief Fire Officer, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the London Gazette 56070, 30 th 

December 2000, pp.14/15/16./18/20/23) 

Kenneth Errol BIRD. For services to the Fire Service. 

Peter Alan CLARKE, Sub Officer, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Peter Donald COWMEADOW, Principal Fire Control Officer, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Fire Safety. 

Stanley George DURN, lately Sub Officer (Retained), Gloucestershire. For services to the Fire Service. 

Michael Frank EVANS, Station Officer, Buckinghamshire . Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Michael HILL, lately Retained Sub Officer,Warwickshire Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Melvyn William KINSEY, Leading Firefighter. For services to the West Midlands Fire Service and to the community. 

David Linklater NORQUAY, Retained Station Officer. For services to the Highlands and Islands Fire Brigade. 

Denis Neville TURNER. For services to the Fire Services National Benevolent Fund. 

30th December 2000 

The Queen has been graciously pleased to approve the award of The Queen’s Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to 

the undermentioned: (Supplement to the London Gazette 56070, 30 th December 2000, pp.25/26) 

Queen‘s Fire Service Medal 

Q.F.S.M. 


Malcolm Hewitt ALCOCK, Chief Fire OYcer, Suffolk Fire Service. 

Harold Edwin James BRADLEY, Station Officer, Cleveland Fire Brigade. 

Thomas Patrick BUTLER, Deputy Assistant Chief Fire Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Allan Stuart MARSHALL, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Malcolm John SAUNDERS, Chief Fire Officer, Merseyside Fire and Civil Defence Authority. 

SCOTLAND 

Robert Walker DOCHERTY, Assistant Firemaster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

180

Angus MacDONALD, Retained Firefighter, Central Scotland Fire Brigade 


C.B.E. 


2001, pp. S.8.) 

Kenneth John KNIGHT, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, West Midlands Fire Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

O.B.E 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said. Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 56237, 16 th June 2001, 

pp. S. 12/13) 

Geoffrey William BREEDEN, Community Fire Safety Officer. For services to the Fire Service and to Young People. 

Ian Alexander SNEDDON, Head, Fire Services and Emergency Planning Division, Scottish Executive. 

Paul YOUNG, Chief Fire Officer, Devon Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

M.B.E. 


pp. B.26) 

Duncan Herman BRANDT, Divisional Officer, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

John William CHADWICK, Community Fire Safety Officer, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Services. For services to the Fire 


Walter George Edward CURRAN, Leading Fire Fighter, Defence Fire Service, Ministry of Defence. 

David Richard DELLOW, Station Commander (Retained),Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire 


Martin Graham FUNNELL, Temporary Station Officer, West Sussex Fire Brigade. For services to Flood Relief. 

Philip Ernest HARVEY, Brigade Engineer and Retained Sub Officer, Hereford and Worcester Fire Brigade. For services to 

Flood Relief. 

Stephen Owen-HUGHES, lately Fire Service Divisional Officer, Defence Fire Service, Ministry of Defence. 

William Sydney SPICKNELL, Sub-Officer (Retained), Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

The Queen has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration of Her Majesty’s Birthday, to approve the award of 

The Queen’s Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 56237, 16 th June 

2001, pp. S 26/7.) 

Q.F.S.M. 

ENGLAND and WALES 

George Victor HAMMOND, Senior Divisional Officer, East Sussex Fire Brigade 

Alan David MARTIN, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, South Wales Fire Service. 

Barrie Griffiths MARTIN, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Mid and West Wales Fire Brigade. 

Barry Raymond O‘DONNELL, Chief Fire Officer, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

SCOTLAND 

John ANDERSON, Retained Station Officer, Grampian Fire Brigade. 

Alan CAMBELL, Retired Scottish Regional Chair, Fire Brigades Union. 

Leon Ian IBBOTSON, Firemaster, Dumfries and Galloway Fire Brigade. 


O.B.E. 


2001, pp. S11.) 

Donald Edward KENT, Inspector, H.M. Fire Service Inspectorate. For services to the Fire Service. 

M.B.E. 


2001, pp. S27.) 

Colin Sidney GRINDY, Leading Fire-fighter, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Albert Percival HUMPRIES, Sub Officer (Retained), Oxfordshire Fire Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

John Carl LANGTRY. For services to the Fire Service. 

Wills Hugh LYNCH. For services to the Fire Service. 

George Charles Nicholas Peter PERREN, J.P. For services to the London Firefighters Retired Members‟. Association. 

Paul Henry POPHAM, Sub Officer (Retained), SouthWales Fire Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Martin Jonathan REECE, For services to the Fire Service Benevolent Fund. 

Barry ROSS, Sub Officer (Retained), Tyne and Wear Metropolitan Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

181

Q.F.S.M. 


the undermentioned 

.ENGLAND AND WALES 

Kevin Brian Patrick ARBUTHNOT, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, West Yorkshire Fire Service. 

Thomas Martin CARROLL, Chief Fire Officer, Oxfordshire Fire Brigade. 

Peter Stephen COLES, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, North Wales Fire Service. 

John Michael ELLIOTT, Chief Fire Officer, Cumbria Fire Service. 

John Alan HOLMES, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Tyne and Wear Metropolitan Fire Brigade 

SCOTLAND 

Charles George Newcombe STEWART, Senior Assistant Inspector of Fire Services. 

Alastair MacDonald WYSE, Acting Firemaster, Fife Fire and Rescue Service. 


James Joseph MACULLAM, Divisional Officer II, Northern Ireland Fire Brigade. 

Thomas Alexander WITHERS, Senior Divisional Officer, Northern Ireland Fire Brigade. 

Queen’s Commendation for Bravery. (Supplement to the L/G. 56547, 23 rd April 2002, pp. 4956.) 

Paul William METCALF (Deceased). Sub Officer. Greater Manchester Fire Service. 

For his actions in attempting to rescue a youth who had fallen into a lake. 

On 5 September 1999, a group of youths were swimming in a lake when one of the boys got into difficulty and became submerged 

in the water. His friends attempted to save him, but were unable to find him because of the poor visibility beneath the surface and 

so ran to summon help from people living nearby. Emergency services were called and the fire brigade crew, which was first to 

arrive, began a search and rescue attempt. Two members of the public had already tried to locate the youth in the water 

without success, but the fire officers realised that as the water temperature was so low there was a slim chance the youth could still 

be alive. Sub Officer Metcalf and two colleagues attached lines to themselves and entering the water began surface diving in the 

area where the youth was last seen. 

By this time there were a number of emergency service personnel at the scene, as well as a helicopter circling above the lake 

trying to locate the youth. Sub Officer Metcalf experienced some difficulty whilst swimming in the harness to which his line was 

attached so he climbed out of the water and removed the harness, then he retied the line around his waist. He returned to the 

lake and swam away from his colleagues towards the other end of the lake, so that they could cover a greater area during the 

search. 

He continued to surface dive for 15 minutes, but then experienced some difficulties and called out to his colleagues for help as he 

struggled to keep his head above water. His colleagues swam out to him and one of them managed to get him in a position 

where he could be towed back to the riverbank, but Sub. Officer Metcalf‟s line snagged on some debris on the bed of the lake and 

he sank beneath the surface again. His colleagues struggled to keep him afloat but he sank out of reach and the officers could not 

find him. By this time, they too became exhausted in the freezing water and had to retreat to the riverbank. Other fire officers on 

the riverbank then attempted to pull Sub Officer Metcalf‟s line in, but it had become stuck fast. A number of attempts were made 

to free the line before the fire officers managed to recover Sub Officer Metcalf and found that his line had become entangled in a 

tree stump and he had lost his life. The body of the youth was recovered later that day. 


The Queen has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of her Her Majesty’s birthday to signify her intention of conferring 

the honour of Knighthood upon the undermentioned, (Supplement to the L/G. 56595, 15 June 2002, pp. 1) 

Knights Bachelor. 

Graham MELDRUM, C.B.E., Q.F.S.M., H.M. Chief Inspector of Fire Services, Department for Transport, Local Government 

and the Regions. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 56595, 15 June 2002, 

pp. 15) 

Christopher Llewellyn COOMBES, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Leicestershire Fire Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

William Charles COX, lately Station Officer (Retained), Norfolk Fire Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 56595, 15 June 2002, 

pp. 15/16/20/26) 

Murray ARMSTRONG. For services to the Fire Services National Benevolent Fund. 

Adrian Keith DUTSON, Sub Officer, London Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

John Scott LAW, Leading Firefighter, Merseyside Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Colin Charles LAWSON, Retained Station Officer, Highland and Islands Fire Brigade. For services to Fire Service. 

Q.F.S.M. 

The Queen’s has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration of Her Majesty’s Birthday, to approve the award 

of The Queen’s Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 56595, 15 th June 

2002, pp. 26) 

182


Roy William BISHOP, Deputy Commissioner, London Fire Brigade. 

Christine Ann FERRIS, Principal Fire Control Officer, Norfolk County Council Fire Service. 

Brian Duncan FRASER, Chief Fire Officer, South Wales Fire Service. 

Stephen McGUIRK, Chief Fire Officer, Cheshire Fire Brigade. 

SCOTLAND 

Brian Alexander MURRAY, Firemaster, Highlands and Islands Fire Brigade. 

Walter Adam STEWART, Regional Chairman, Retained Firefighters Union. 



O.B.E. 


2002, pp. S 13.) 

Roy WILLIAMSON, Chief Fire Officer, Humberside Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

M.B.E. 


2002, pp .S.15/19/20/23.) 

Iris Elvina, Mrs. COSTIN, Station Cook, London Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Robert Bayne McKINNON, lately Retained Station Officer, Tayside Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service 

Robert John Fisher MURPHY, Retained Sub Officer, Central Scotland Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Peter Owen Leslie WINTER, Sub Officer (Retained), East Sussex Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 


Q.F.S.M. 

Queens Fire Service Medal. 

The Queen has been graciouslypleased to approve the award of The Queen’s Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to 

the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 56791, 31 st December 2002, pp.27.) 


George BRYSON, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Isle of Wight Fire Brigade. 

Martin Donald BURRELL, Chief Fire Officer, West Sussex Fire Brigade. 

Graham MacPherson HOLDEN, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Warwickshire Fire Brigade. 

Keith Leslie MARSHALL, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Humberside Fire Service. 

C.B. 

CENTRAL CHANCERY OF THE ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD. 

To be OrdinaryMembers of the Civil Division of the Third Class, or Companions, of the said Most Honourable Order: 

(Supplement to the L/G. 56963, 14th. June 2003. pp. 27.) 

Clive Murray NORRIS, Director, Fire, Health and Safety Directorate, Office of the Deputy Prime Minister. 

Q.F.S.M. 

Queens Fire Service Medal. 

The Queen has been graciouslypleased to approve the award of The Queen’s Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to 

the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 56963, 14th. June 2003. pp. 27.) 


John COCKRELL, lately Assistant Chief Officer, Defence Fire Service (Army), Headquarters Quartermaster General. 

Alan DOIG, Chief Fire Officer, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Michael CLEMENT-GREEN, lately Chief Fire Officer, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Roger GREET, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Dorset Fire and Rescue Service. 

Police. Francis SHEENAN, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, West Midlands Fire Service. 

SCOTLAND 

Michael John BITCON, Firemaster, Fife Fire and Rescue. 

Jagtar SINGH, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Equal Opportunities 

in the Fire Service. 



Royal Victorian Medal (Silver) 

Frank Ronald JONES, Fire Surveillance Officer, Windsor . (Supplement to the L/G. 57155, 31 st December 2003.pp.4.) 

183

C.B.E. 


December 2003, pp. 7/8.) 

Richard BULL, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Jeffrey ORD, Q.F.S.M., Firemaster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

O.B.E. 


2003, pp. 23.) 

Peter WHEDALE, Assistant Chief Officer, Humberside Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

M.B.E. 


2003, pp. 13./15/18/22/23) 

Thames Barry Charles ADBY, lately Retained Officer, Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service 

David BROOKS, Breathing Apparatus Technician, Devon Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Services National 

Benevolent Fund. 

Ronald Robert John COULTER. For services to the Northern Ireland Fire Brigade. 

Adrian David HUGHES, Retained Officer, Mid and West Wales Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

David Ramsay SAINT, Retained Officer, Tayside Fire, Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Peter WHELDALE, Assistant Chief Officer, Humberside Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 



the undermentioned: : (Supplement to the L/G. 57155, 31 st December 2003, pp. 27.) 

Q.F.S.M. 

Queen’s Fire Service Medal. 

ENGLAND AND WALES , 

Eamonn George BARCLAY, Senior Divisional Officer, London Fire and Emergency Planning. 

Martin Lester CHAPMAN, Chief Fire Officer, Dorset Fireand Rescue Service. 

Danielle Amara COTTON, Assistant Divisional Officer, London Fire and Emergency Planning. 

John Christopher DOYLE, Chief Fire Officer, Cleveland Fire Service. 

Charles Donald HENDRY, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Kent Fire and Rescue Service 

SCOTLAND 

Stephen HUNTER, Firemaster, Tayside Fire Brigade. 

Geoffrey WILLIAMS, Deputy Firemaster,Central Scot land Fire Brigade. 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. Supplement to the L/G. 57315, 1 st June 

2004, pp.7/8.) 

Dennis Tyrone DAVIS, O.B.E., Q.F.S.M., lately HM Chief Inspector of Fire Services for Scotland. 

Philip Cursley TOASE, Chief Fire Officer, West Yorkshire Fire Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

M.B.E.. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 57315, 1 st June 2004, 

pp.19.) 

Christopher David PARSONS, Sub-Officer in Charge (Retained), Hereford and Worcester Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire 

Service and to the community in Pershore, Worcestershire. 

12 June 2004. 


The Queen’s Fire Service Medal Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 57315, 1 st June 2004, 

pp.26.) 

Q.F.S.M. 



Brian Walter HIBBERT, Chief Fire Officer, Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

John Christopher McCALL, lately Chief Fire Officer, Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service. 

Keith NEWNES, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Roger James WALSH, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Essex Fire and Rescue Service. 

SCOTLAND 

Robert Daniel COKE, lately Assistant Firemaster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

DavidJohn DALZIEL, Deputy Firemaster, Grampian Fire and Rescue Service. 

184



No entries of operational interest found. O.B.E. 


2004, pp.13/16.) 

Stephen Francis SEABER,Chief Fire Officer, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire and Rescue Service. 

Gordon John COOK, Station Officer. For services to the Fire Service in Wick, Caithness. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order (Supplement to the L/G. 57509, 31 st December 

2004, pp.13/16/18/20.) 

John William HOCKLEY, Secretary, National Association of Retired Firefighters. For services to the Fire Service. 

Fraser MacKENZIE, Volunteer Leader, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

Evan John MORRIS, Public Relations Officer, Cheshire Fire Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Q.F.S.M. 

The Queen has been graciously pleased to approve the The Queen’s Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the 

undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 57509, 31 st December 2004, pp.13/16/18/20/26.) 


Ronald James DOBSON, Assistant Commissioner Service, London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority. 

Christopher Harry HORTON, Deputy Chief Fire Officer . Devon Fire and Rescue Service. 

Michael Allan HOWELL, Chief Fire Officer, Cornwall County Fire Brigade. 

Meredith John HURREN, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Graham John MALTBY, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

SCOTLAND. 

Daniel O‘DONNELL, Deputy Firemaster, Fife Fire and Rescue Service. 

Brian Philip SWEENEY, Firemaster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. 

Steven Cameron TORRIE Deputy Firemaster, Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade. 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the London Gazette 57855, 

11 th June 2005, pp. 7.) 

Alan DOIG, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire and Rescue Service 

O.B.E. 


June 2005, pp.9/11/12.) 

Roy William BISHOP, Q.F.S.M., Deputy Commissioner, London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority. For services to the 

Fire Service and to the people of London 

Peter James JONES, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire and Rescue 


Ms Cheryl ROLPH, Director of People and Performance, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire and 

Rescue Services. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the London Gazette 57855, 11 th 

June 2005, 

Christopher Alban DEVERILL, Trustee, Fire Service National Benevolent Fund. For services to the Fire and Rescue Service. 

Roy HAROLD, Group Manager, Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire and Rescue Service. 


31 December 2005 

Q.F.S.M. 

The Queen has been graciously pleased to approve the Queen’s Fire Service Medal (Supplement to the London Gazette 57855, 

30 th December 2005, pp. 26.) 


Richard BRABBS, Station Officer, West Yorkshire Fire 

Anthony McGUIRK, Chief Fire Officer, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service. 

Stephen MYERS, Chief Fire Officer, Surrey Fire and Rescue Service. 

Kenneth SEAGER, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service. 

Ronald TAYLOR, Chief Fire Officer, Guernsey Fire Service. 

SCOTLAND 

185

Norman BURNS, Retained Sub Officer, Sanquhar Fire Station. 

Andrew Whyte HARRISON, Assistant Inspector, Majesty‟s Fire Service Inspectorate. 

17 June 2006 

The Queen has been graciously pleased, on the Celebration of Her Majesty’s Birthday, to signify to Kenneth John Knight, 

C.B.E., Q.F.S.M., Commissioner, London Fire Brigade, her intention of conferring the honour of Knighthood. 

For services to the Fire Service: (Supplement to the L/G. 58014, 16 th June 2006. pp. 1.) 

Knights Batchelor. 

Kenneth John KNIGHT,C.B.E., Q.F.S.M.,Commissioner, London Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire and Rescue Service. 

O.B.E. (Supplement to the L/G. 58014, 16 th June 2006. pp. 12.) 

Vijith RANDENIYA, Deputy Chief Fire Officer. 

For services to the Fire and Rescue Service in the West Initiative, Queen‟s University, Belfast. For services to the Midlands. 

M.B.E. (Supplement to the L/G. 58014, 16 th June 2006. pp.14/17/22.) 

Alice Joyce, Mrs. ARTHUR, Retained Sub-Officer, Highland and Islands Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the 

community in the Shetland Islands. 

John Herbert FITZJOHN, Head, Community Fire Safety, Mid and West Wales Fire Authority. For services to the Fire and 

Rescue Service. 

Colin John SANDERS, Sub-Officer, Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the services to the Fire 

Service National Benevolent Fund. 

17 June 2006. 

Q.F.S.M. 

The Queen has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of the Celebration of HerMajesty’s Birthday, to approve of the 

Celebration of Her Majesty’s Birthday, to approve the award of The Queen’s Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to 

the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 58014, 16 th June 2006. pp. 26.) 


Andrew Philip BARRETT, Senior Divisional Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Bernie CAHILL, Chief Fire Officer, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Desmond George Michael PRICHARD, Chief Fire Officer, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service. 

Christopher Paul TURNCOCK, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

SCOTLAND. 

John Robert FENTON, Divisional Officer, Central Scotland Fire and Rescue Service. 

Hugh HENNY, Temporary Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service. 

John (Jack) HUTCHEON, Deputy Chief Officer, Tayside Fire and Rescue Service. 


C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 58196, 30 th 

December 2006. pp. 7.) 

Barry DIXON, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, Greater Manchester County Fire Service. For services to the Fire and Rescue 


O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 58196, 30 th December 

2006. pp. 12/13.) 

Susan Ellen, Mrs. SMITH, Deputy Chief Officer, Devon Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Fire Safety. 

Roy WILSHER, Chief Fire Officer, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Fire Safety. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 58196, 30 th December 

2006. pp. 19/20/21/22/24.) 

William Keith MacGILLIVRAY, Assistant Chief Officer, Strathclyde Fire and Rescue. For services to the Fire Service National 

Benevolent Fund. 

James Andrew MOAR, Retained Station Officer, Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Fire Safety. 

David NORMAN, Retained Sub-Officer, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Fire Safety. 

Keith Raymond ROSZELL, Vice-Chair, Cornwall Area Committee, Fire Services National Benevolent Fund. For services to the 

Fire and Rescue Service. 

Anne Marie, Mrs. WATERS, Watch Manager, RDS, Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Fire Safety. 

186

30 December 2006 


the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 58196, 30 th December 2006. pp. 27.) 

Queen‘s Fire Service Medal 

Q.F.S.M. 


Peter HAZELDINE, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Anthony PROCTOR, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Greater Manchester County Fire and Rescue Service. 

Keith RING, Assistant Inspector, Her Majesty‟s Fire Service Inspectorate. 

Tyrone Anthony ROBINSON, Watch Manager, London Fire Brigade. 

Simon SMITH, Chief Fire Officer, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service. 

SCOTLAND 

Eileen, Mrs. BAIRD, Deputy Chief Officer, Strathclyde Fire and Rescue Service. 

Wayne Terrance McCOLLIN, Temporary Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service. 

Honours and Awards. 

Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood 

St James‟s Palace, London SW1 

15 May 2007. 

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to make the following appointment to the Royal Victorian Order: 

M.V.O. (Supplement to the L/G. 58327, 15 th May, 2007. pp. 1.) 

To be a Member: 

Edward John CHANDLER. On retirement as Fire Safety Manager, Buckingham Palace. 

(To be dated 2 May 2007.) 

16 June 2007 


The Queen’s Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 58358, 30 th June, 

2007. pp. 25.) 

Q.F.S.M. 



John BONNEY, Chief Fire Officere, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Ian HAYTON, Executive Director, Cleveland Fire and Rescue Service. 

Clive KEMP, Chief Fire Officer, Somerset Fire and Rescue Service. 

Mazan KHURI, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service. 

SCOTLAND. 

Forbes CATTO, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Fife Fire and Rescue Service. 

Ms Gale COATES, Retained Watch Manager, Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service. 

Andrew Michael SHUTTLEWORTH, Assistant Chief Officer, Strathclyde Fire and Rescue Service. 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 58358, 30 th June, 

2007. pp. 7.) 

Councillor Leslie Thomas BYROM, Chairman, Local Government Association for the Fire Service Management Committee. For 

services to Local Government. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the L/G. 58358, 30 th June, 

2007. pp. 14.) 

Graham BOW. For services to the Fire and Rescue Service. 

The George Medal. (Supplement to the London Gazette 58522, 27 th November 2007, pp. 17199.) 

Jeffrey Richard TristanWORNHAM (deceased), Firefighter, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Michael Liam Brady MILLER (deceased), Firefighter, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

For their actions in attempting to rescue people trapped in a fire. 

In February 2005 in the early hours of the morning a fire was reported on the 14th floor of a block of flats in Stevenage. Reports 

received indicated that people may have been trapped. Firefighters Jeffrey Wornham and Michael Miller were part of the initial 

attendance and went aloft to assess the situation which was serious. 

Colleagues prepared the equipment and water needed to enter the premises but before these were ready cries for help were heard 

from inside the flat. The two firefighters decided to proceed even though they did not at that stage have the proper equipment with 

them. One man was rescued and he indicated that his girlfriend was still in the flat. 

Both firefighters re-entered the flat to search for the second person. By then the conditions were deteriorating rapidly with intense 

heat and zero visibility. While attempting the second rescue the fire intensified and JeffreyWornham, Michael Miller and the 

occupant of the flat were engulfed by flames and as a consequence died. 

187

The Queen’s Gallantry Medal. (Supplement to the L/G. 58522, 27 th November 2007, pp. 17199 / 17200.) 

Angus John CAMPBELL, Watch Manager, London Fire Brigade. 

For his actions on an underground train in a failed terrorist attack in London. 

At lunchtime on 21July 2005 Angus Campbell who was off duty, was travelling to work on the Northern Line of the London 

Underground when a passenger who was in the same carriage tried to detonate an explosive device contained in a rucksack. The 

improvised device failed fully to explode but caused a loud bang and smoke and a black chemical substance seeped out onto the 

carriage floor. 

Whilst the train was still travelling between stations Mr Campbell organised the evacuation of passengers into adjacent carriages, 

including a screaming woman with a child. He then pulled the emergency cord and informed the driver of the explosion. Mr 

Campbell remained in the carriage with the terrorist, engaged him in conversation and asked him to lie on the floor. He also asked 

the driver not to open the carriage doors at the next stop. Unfortunately on arriving at the station the doors opened and the suspect 

ran off but was detained later. 



M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: (Supplement to the L/G. 

58557, 30 th December 2007, pp. 16/20/21/22/23.) 

John William FARDON, Fire Control Officer, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local Government. 

Michael George HOWE, Station Manager (Retained), Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local Government. 

David Edison NEWTON, Fire Fighter, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local Government. 

Councillor Derek Neville REES, Chair, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local Government. 

Philip RYAN, Retained Station Manager, Tewkesbury Community Fire Station, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. For 

services to Flood Rescue. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: (Supplement to the L/G. 

58557, 30 th December 2007, pp. 8.) 

Ms Andrea Margaret SHAW, Assistant Control Manager, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Flood 

Rescue. 

Barbara Elizabeth, Mrs.RIDDELL, Director of Resources, London Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire and Rescue Service. 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: (Supplement to the 

L/G. 58557, 30 th December 2007, pp. 8/12). 

Paul YOUNG, O.B.E., Chief Fire Officer, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local Government. 

29 December 2007. 


the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 58557, 30 th December 2007, pp. 26.) 

Q.F.S.M. 



Nigel Thompson CHARLSTON, Senior Fire Safety Manager, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Robert FYFE, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service. 

John PARRY, Chief Fire Officer, Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

David Michael WEBB, Chief Fire Officer, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service. 

SCOTLAND. 

John RUSSELL, Scottish Community Fire Safety Coordinator, Strathclyde Fire and Rescue. 

Anthony WOOD, Deputy Chief Officer, Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service. 

C.B.E. 


2008, pp. 8, Queen‘s Birthday Honours.). 

Francis John SHEEHAN, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service. For service to Local 

Government. 

O.B.E. 


pp. 13/15, Queen‘s Birthday Honours). 

188

Derek Anthony CHADBON, lately General-Secretary, Retained Firefighters‟ Union. For services to the Fire and Rescue Service. 

Anthony DUGGAN, Councillor and Chair, Bedfordshire and Luton Combined Fire Authority. For services to the Fire and Rescue 

Service and to Local Government 

M.B.E. 


pp. 13/14/15. Queen‘s Birthday Honours). 

Geoffrey Paul ARROWSMITH, lately HM Specialist Inspector of Health and Safety (Fire Inspector), Health and Safety 

Executive. 

Ian David BITHELL, Retained Duty System Watch Manager. For services to Local Government and to the community in 

Wrexham. 

Godfrey William DAVIS, Chair of Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Authority. For services to Local Government. 


The Queen’s Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the L/G. 58729, 14 th June 

2008, pp. 27 ). 

Q.F.S.M. 



Paul Maurice FULLER, Chief Fire Officer, Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service. 

Brian HESLAR, Chief Fire Officer, Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service. 

Maxwell HOOD, Assistant Commissioner, London Fire Brigade. 

Terence STANDING, Chief Fire Officer, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Geoffrey Alan TAYLOR, Chief Fire Officer, Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

SCOTLAND. 

Paul AUSTIN, lately Group Manager, Strathclyde Fire and Rescue Service. 

James CAMBELL, Chief Officer, Fife Fire and Rescue Service. 

(William) John STRACHAN, Retained Officer-in-Charge Stonehaven, Grampian Fire and Rescue Service. 

C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the London Gazette, 55155, 

15 th June 2008, pp. 9) 

John JAMESON, Q.F.S.M., Firemaster, Strathclyde Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the London Gazette, 55155, 15 th 

June 2008, pp. 11/12.) 

Jeffrey GODDARD, Chief Fire Officer, Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service 

Robert John KING, Chief Fire Officer, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the London Gazette, 55155, 

15 th June 2008, pp. 15./16/17/19/21/24) 

Robert ANDERSON, lately retained Sub Officer, Dumfries and Galloway Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service 

Hugh CAMERON, Retained Station Officer, Highlands and Islands Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service and to the 

community 

Terence Charles DUNMORE, Sub Officer, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Colin Michael HATCH, Senior Divisional Officer, Cornwall County Fire Brigade. For services to Local Government. 

Robin HOFFMAN, Q.F.S.M., Sub Officer (Retained), South Wales Fire Service. For services to the Fire Service. 

Christopher William JAMES, Sub Officer (Retained), Cheshire Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Brigade 

Wilfred Charles JONES, Station Officer (Retained), Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire 

Services and to Young People. 

Michael George NANKERVIS, Station Officer, Cornwall County Fire Brigade. For services to the Fire Service 

Maurice Edward NEWBOLT, Engineering Manager. For services to the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service. 

Linton SELFRIDGE. For services to the Fire Service. 

Colin Anthony TURNER, Sub Officer (Retained), North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Fire Service. 


C.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Commanders of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the London Gazette, 58929, 

31 st December 2008, pp. N.7) 

Charles Donald HENDRY, Q.F.S.M., Chief Fire Officer, Kent Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local Government. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the London Gazette, 58929, 

189

31 st December 2008, pp. N.10) 

John Alan HOLMES, Q.F.S.M., Programme Director, North East Fire and Rescue Authorities. For services to Local 

Government. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the London Gazette, 58929, 

31 st December 2008, pp. N. 17/23.) 

Colin Michael HATCH, Senior Divisional Officer, Cornwall County Fire Brigade. For services to Local Government. 

Diana Joy, Mrs. WILLIAMS, Assistant Chief Officer, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local Government. 

St. James‟s Palace, London SW1. 

31 December 2008. 


of The Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the London Gazette, 

58929, 

31 st December 2008, pp. N.26.) 

Q.F.S.M. 



Iain COX, Chief Fire Officer, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Robert REA, Group Manager, Fire Service College, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire. 

Francis STARK, Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, London Fire Brigade. 

Philip TOASE, Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

SCOTLAND. 

Douglas Colin MacDONALD, Watch Manager,Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service. 

Ian Knox STOCKS, Scottish Project Manager, Firelink. 


Eoin DOYLE, Area Commander, Western Area Command, Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service. 

O.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order. (Supplement to the London Gazette, 59090, 13 th 

June 2009, pp. (9/9/11/ 

Margaret Mary, Mrs. HASKELL, Director of Human Resources, Avon Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local 

Government. 

Bernard Clement John HUGHES, Chairman, Regional Management Board, Fire and Rescue Service South West. For services to 

Local Government. 

Louis Bernard JONES, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local Government. 

M.B.E. 

To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order: (Supplement to the London Gazette, 59090, 13 th 

June 2009, pp. (17/19/21/22/23 

Samuel George GRACEY, Station Watch Commander, Dromore Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local 

Government. 

Frazer Andrew MACDONALD, Watch Manager, Tayside Fire and Rescue. For services to the Prince‟s Trust. 

Malcolm Brian MOSS, Retained Leading Firefighter, Leicestershire and Rutland Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local 

Government. 

Ms Linda Irene ROBERTS, Area Manager for Control Function, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Local 

Government. 

Ms Caroline Margaret WALLACE, Quality Assurance Manager, Fire Service College, Department for Communities and Local 

Government. For public and voluntary service. 

13 June 2009 


The Queen’s Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service to the undermentioned: (Supplement to the London Gazette, 59090, 

13 th June 2009, pp. 26). 

Queen’s Fire Service Meda.l 

Q.F.S.M. 


Leslie BOWMAN, Watch Manager, London Fire Brigade. 

Nicholas COLLINS, Assistant Commissioner, London Fire Brigade. 

Ian GOODMAN, Fire-fighter, Cleveland Fire Brigade. 

Christopher GRIFFIN, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service and Head of Gloucestershire‟s 

Emergency Management Service. 

190

SCOTLAND 

Joseph James HARKINS, Crew Commander, Strathclyde Fire and Rescue. 

Brian Ritchie HUGHES, Retained Watch Manager, Tayport Fire Station, Fife Fire and Rescue Service. 

David HUTCHINSON, Assistant Chief Officer, Strathclyde Fire and Rescue. 

APPENDIX. 

THE LONDON GAZETTE, JULY 9, 1909. pp 5281. (Compiler‘s highlighting in red). 

THE KING'S POLICE MEDAL. 

The KING has been pleased to issue a Warrant under His Majesty's Royal Sign Manual to the following effect:— 

EDWARD, R. & I. 

EDWARD THE SEVENTH, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and of the British 

Dominions beyond the Seas King, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India, to all to whom these Presents shall come: Greeting! 

Whereas We have taken into Our Royal consideration the good services which are rendered by officers of the Constabulary Forces 

and by persons serving in Fire Brigades within Our Dominions and in Territories under Our Protection or Jurisdiction and the 

heroic acts of courage and instances of conspicuous devotion to duty of such persons which are from time to time brought to Our 

notice: 

And whereas We are desirous of distinguishing such meritorious conduct by some mark of Our Royal favour: 

We do by these Presents for Us, Our Heirs and Successors, institute and create a new Medal to be awarded for such acts of 

courage and conspicuous devotion to duty. 

Firstly.—It is ordained that the Medal shall be designated and styled "The King's Police Medal." 

Secondly.—It is ordained that the King's Police Medal shall consist of a circular Medal of Silver with Our Effigy on the obverse, 

and on the reverse a design emblematic of Protection from danger, and shall bear on the rim the name of the person to whom the 

Medal is awarded: 

Thirdly.—It is ordained that the Medal shall only be awarded to those of Our Faithful Subjects and others who being members of 

a recognized Police Force or of a properly organized Fire Brigade within Our Dominions or in Territories under Our Protection or 

Jurisdiction, have performed acts of exceptional courage and skill or have exhibited conspicuous devotion to duty; and that such 

award shall be made only on a recommendation to Us by Our Principal Secretary of State for the Home Department. 

Fourthly.—It is ordained that the names of those upon whom We may be pleased to confer this Decoration shall be published in 

the London Gazette, and that a Register thereof shall be kept in the Office of Our Principal Secretary of State for the Home 

Department. Such Register shall show the name and rank of the person holding the Medal, the Police Force or Fire Brigade of 

which he is or was a member, and particulars of the action for which the Medal has been awarded. 

Fifthly. —It is ordained that each Medal shall be suspended from the left breast, and the riband, of an inch and three eighths in 

width, shall be dark blue with a narrow silver stripe-on either side. 

Sixthly.—It is ordained that any act of gallantry which is worthy of recognition by the award of the King's Police Medal, but is 

performed by one upon whom the Decoration has already been conferred, may, on a recommendation to Us by Our Principal 

Secretary of State for the Home Department, be recorded by a Bar attached to the riband by which the Medal is suspended; and for 

every such additional act an additional Bar may be added. 

Seventhly.—In order to make such provision as shall effectually preserve pure this honourable Decoration, it is ordained that if 

any person on whom the Decoration is conferred be guilty of any crime or disgraceful conduct which in Our judgment disqualifies 

him for the same, this Medal shall, by an especial Warrant under Our 

Royal Sign Manual, be forfeited, and his name shall be forthwith erased from the Register of those upon whom the said 

Decoration shall have been conferred. And every person to .whom the said Medal is given shall before receiving the same enter 

into an agreement to return the same, if his name shall be so erased as aforesaid under 

this regulation. It is hereby further declared that We, Our Heirs and Successors, shall be the sole judges of the circumstances 

demanding such forfeiture. 

Given at Our Court at Saint James's, the seventh day of July, one thousand nine hundred and nine, in the ninth year 

of Our Reign. 

By His Majesty's Command. 

H. J. Gladstone. 

The following Regulations shall be observed in recommending His Majesty to grant the King's Police Medal:— 

1. A list of the names of officers of recognized Police Forces, or of properly constituted Fire Brigades, who are recommended for 

the Medal, shall be submitted once in each year to His Majesty by the Secretary of State for the Home Department. Provided that 

a recommendation may be made at any time when His Majesty so commands. 

2. A list of officers recommended by the Secretary of State for the Colonies and the Secretary of State for India shall be forwarded 

to the Home Office in the month of October in each year. 

3. Each list shall contain the name and rank of each person recommended, the Police Force or Fire Brigade of which he is or was a 

member, and particulars of the action or service for which the grant of the Medal is recommended. 

4. The number of Medals awarded in any one year shall not exceed one hundred and twenty, of which at the most forty shall be 

awarded for service in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man, thirty for 

service in His Majesty's Dominions beyond the Seas, and fifty for service in the Empire of India. 

5. In very special circumstances, which, in His Majesty's opinion, would justify an exceptional grant, His Majesty may award 

Medals exceeding the above number. 

6. The qualifications for the grant of the Medal shall be as follows :— 

191

(a) Conspicuous gallantry in saving life and property, or in preventing crime or arresting criminals; the risks incurred to be 

estimated 

with due regard to the obligations and duties of the officer concerned. 

(5) A specially distinguished record in administrative or detective service. 

(c) Success in organizing Police Forces or Fire Brigades or Departments, or in maintaining their organization under special 

difficulties. 

(d) Special services in dealing with serious or widespread outbreaks of crime or public disorder, or of fire. 

(e) Valuable political and secret services. 

(/) Special services to Royalty and Heads of States. 

(g) Prolonged service; but only when distinguished by very exceptional ability and merit. 

H. J. Gladstone. 

Whitehall, 

July 7, 1909. 

"The Fire Brigade Long Service and Good Conduct Medal". 

(Supplement to the L/G. 52245, 16 th August 1990, pp. 13379.) 

HOME OFFICE 

Queen Anne's Gate 

London SW1H 9AT 

The QUEEN has been pleased to issue a Warrant under Her Majesty's Royal Sign Manual in the following form: 

ELIZABETH R. 

ELIZABETH THE SECOND, by the Grace of God of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and of Our other 

Realms and Territories QUEEN, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith, to all to whom these Presents shall come, 

Greeting! 

WHEREAS WE, being desirous of honouring those who have rendered long and meritorious service as members of the Fire 

Brigades of the United Kingdom, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands, did by Warrant dated the first day of June, one 

thousand nine hundred and fifty four, for Us, Our Heirs and Successors institute and create a new Medal to be designated and 

styled "The Fire Brigade Long Service and Good Conduct Medal": 

AND WHEREAS the rules and ordinances governing the same have been varied and extended from time to time and were 

consolidated by a Warrant under Our Sign Manual dated the twelfth day of November, one thousand nine hundred and sixty nine: 

AND WHEREAS We have from time to time amended the said Warrant and are desirous of further amending the rules and 

ordinances governing the award of the said Medal and of consolidating the Warrants relating to the said Medal, We do hereby 

direct that the award of the said medal shall be governed by the following rules and ordinances: 

First: Style.—The Medal shall be designated and styled "The Fire Brigade Long Service and Good Conduct Medal". 

Secondly: Description.—The Award shall be in cupronickel, in the form of a circular Medal, bearing on the obverse the Crown 

Effigy of the Sovereign and on the reverse the inscription "For Exemplary Fire Service" with a design showing two firefighters 

handling a hose. 

Thirdly: Ribbon.—The Medal shall be worn on the left side attached by means of a suspending bar to a ribbon one and a quarter 

inches in width, which shall be, in colour, red, with on either side a yellow stripe on which is superimposed a narrow stripe of red. 

Fourthly: Eligibility.—Those eligible shall be full-time and parttime members of all ranks in Fire Brigades or Aerodrome Fire 

Services maintained by Local Authorities in England, Wales and Scotland, or public airport companies established under the 

Airports Act 1986, or by a Fire Authority in Northern Ireland, or in the Fire Brigades in the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands, 

Fire Service members of the Home Office Fire Service Inspectorate and of the Scottish Home and Health Department Fire Service 

Inspectorate and Fire Service Instructors at central training establishments of the Home Office and at the Fire Service Training 

School of the Scottish Home and Health Department. Full-time members of Fire Brigades or Services maintained by Government 

Departments or by the British Airports Authority up to the first day of August 1986 or by the BAA pic shall also be eligible, if 

their conditions of enrolment include a liability to engage in fire-fighting and part-time members of such Brigades or Services 

shall be eligible if they have obligations similar to those of eligible part-time members of Local Authority Fire Brigades in the 

United Kingdom. Fulltime and part-time members of all ranks in Fire Brigades and Services, including members of Fire Brigades 

and Services maintained by Government Departments and Authorities, within Our States of New South Wales, Victoria, 

Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and Tasmania, the Australian Capital Territory, the Northern Territory, Norfolk 

Island, the Territory of Christmas Island and the Territory of Cocos (Keeling) Islands, full-time and part-time members of all ranks 

in the Fire Service of Our Realm of Papua New Guinea, if their conditions of employment include a liability to engage in firefighting. 

Fifthly: Service required.—The qualifying period requisite for the award shall be twenty years' whole-time of part-time service in 

one of the Fire Brigades or Services afore-mentioned or an aggregate of twenty years' whole-time of part-time service in one or 

more such Brigades or Services. In the Fire Service of Our Realm of Papua New Guinea previous service in the Fire Brigades of 

Our Territory of Papua and New Guinea shall continue to count as qualifying service together with other specified service. Service 

in Brigades which were maintained by Local Authorities but are no longer in existence, service in the Auxiliary Fire Service 

between the third day of September 1939 and the eighteenth day of August 1941 (or in Northern Ireland, between the third day of 

September 1939 and the first day of April 1942) and service in the National Fire Service shall also be treated as qualifying service, 

but other service in the Auxiliary Fire Service shall not be so treated. Qualifying service may be paid or unpaid. Service in Fire 

Brigades or Services maintained by Government Departments or the former British Airports Authority or by the BAA pic, shall be 

192

treated as qualifying service only if the service is whole-time and entails a liability to engage in fire-fighting or is part-time and 

entails obligations similar to those of eligible part-time members of Local Authority Fire Brigades in the United Kingdom. Service 

in a Government Department or in Our Armed Forces whether on secondment, on recall or when called upon to serve, service in 

Our Armed Forces or Merchant Navy during the Second World War, 1939-45, or service in a Fire Service in a British territory 

overseas, which interrupted, and was continuous with, qualifying fire service shall itself be treated as qualifying service, provided 

that such service has not been and will not be counted towards the award of any other official Fire Brigade Long Service Medal. 

Service during a period of compulsory National Service Training which interrupted, and was continuous with, qualifying fire 

service shall be treated as qualifying service. 

Qualifying service in a Fire Brigade or Service maintained by a Government Department shall not be counted both for the award 

of the Fire Brigade Long Service and Good Conduct Medal and also for the award of the Imperial Service Medal. Any such 

qualifying service not counted towards the award of the Fire Brigade Long Service and Good Conduct Medal may, if otherwise 

suitable to be reckoned, be counted towards the qualifying period for the award of the Imperial Service Medal. Any service which 

has been reckoned as qualifying service for the Civil Defence Long Service Medal or the Women's Voluntary Service Medal or 

Clasp shall not be counted towards the award of the Fire Brigade Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. 

Sixthly: Certificate of efficiency.—No person shall be recommended for the Medal unless, having completed the qualified period 

of service it is certified that their character and conduct have been very good. It is also a requirement that the candidate shall have 

been put forward by the Chief Fire Officer or Firemaster or, if a Chief Officer or Firemaster, or Chief Officer of a Departmental 

Fire Brigade, by the appropriate authority. 

Seventhly: Registration.—The names of all those to whom the Medal is awarded in the United Kingdom shall be recorded in the 

Department of Atomic Energy (1 st . June 1954 to 31 st . July 1954), the Ministry of Defence, the Department of the Environment for 

Northern Ireland, the Home Office, the Scottish Home and Health Department, the Department of the Environment, the 

Department of Transport, as the case may be. 

Those to whom the Medal is awarded in the Commonwealth of Australia shall be recorded in the Premier's Department, New 

South Wales, the Chief Secretary's Department, Victoria, the Office of the State Fire Services Council, Queensland, the Chief 

Secretary's Department, South Australia, the Office of the Western Australia Fire Brigades Board, Western Australia, the 

Premier's and Chief Secretary's Department, Tasmania or the Prime Minister's Department, Canberra, as the case may be. Those to 

whom the Medal is awarded in Our Realm of Papua New Guinea shall be recorded in the Office of the Prime Minister or the 

appropriate Minister of State. 

Eighthly: Name of recipient.—The name of the recipient shall be engraved or stamped on the rim of the Medal. 

Ninthly: Order of wear.—In the official list showing the order in which Orders, Decorations and Medals should be worn the Fire 

Brigade Long Service and Good Conduct Medal shall be placed immediately after the Police Long Service and Good Conduct 

Medal. 

Tenthly: Miniatures.—Reproduction of the Medal, known as miniature Medals, which may be worn on certain occasions by those 

to whom the Medal is awarded, shall be approximately half the size of the Fire Brigade Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, 

and a sealed pattern of the miniature Medal shall be kept in the Central Chancery of Our Orders of Knighthood. 

Eleventhly: Delegated powers.—Delegated powers to make awards in the United Kingdom under the terms of this Our Warrant 

shall be vested in Our Lord President of the Council, Our Secretary of State for Defence, Our Secretary of State for Northern 

Ireland, Our Secretary of State for the Home Department, Our Secretary of State for Scotland, Our Secretary of State for the 

Environment and Our Secretary of State for Transport, as the case may be. Delegated powers to make awards in the 

Commonwealth of Australia shall be vested in the Governors or Officers Administering the Governments of Our States of New 

South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South 

Australia, Western Australia and Tasmania and the appropriate Ministers of State for Our Commonwealth of Australia, in regard 

to the Fire Brigades or Services within their respective jurisdictions. Delegated powers to make awards in Our Realm of Papua 

New Guinea shall be vested in the Governor General or appropriate Minister of State. 

Twelfthly: Other awards.—It shall be a condition of the award of the Medal in any Fire Brigade that the grant of any unofficial or 

local long service or good conduct medals for wear in such Brigades shall be discontinued, and that any unofficial or local long 

service medals, if already granted, shall not be worn by a recipient of Our Fire Brigade Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. 

Thirteenthly: Forfeiture and restoration.—It shall be competent in the United Kingdom for Our Lord President of the Council, 

Our Secretary of State for Defence, Our Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Our Secretary of State for the Home Department, 

Our Secretary of State for Scotland, Our Secretary of State for the Environment, and Our Secretary of State for Transport as the 

case may be, or in the Commonwealth of Australia the aforesaid Governors or Officers Administering the Governments or the 

aforesaid Ministers of State, as the case may be, or in Our Realm of Papua New Guinea the aforesaid Governor General or 

appropriate Minister of State, in relation to the Fire Brigades within their respective jurisdiction, to cancel and annul the 

conferment of the Medal on any person and also to restore a Medal which has been so forfeited. 

Fourteenthly: Revocation of Warrant.—The Warrant of the twelfth day of November 1969 is hereby revoked. 

Lastly: Annulment, &c., of rules and ordinances.—We reserve to Ourself, Our Heirs and Successors, full power of annulling, 

altering, abrogating, augmenting, interpreting or dispensing with these rules and ordinances, or any part thereof, by a notification 

under Our Sign Manual. 

Given at Our Court at Saint James's the fourth day of August 1990; In the Thirty-ninth Year of Our Reign. 

By Her Majesty's Command. 

David Waddington 

APPENDIX 

Schedule of existing fire brigades and other organisations of the United Kingdom, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands, in 

which the medal will be granted, showing the responsible departments which will have delegated powers to make awards. 

1. Department of Atomic Energy— (1 st June 1954 to 31 st July 1954)— 

193

Members of the Department of Atomic Energy Fire Brigades. (1 st June 1954 to 31 st July 1954.) 

2. Ministry of Defence— 

Members of the Ministry of Defence Civilian Fire Services and Fire Brigades. 

3. Department of the Environment for Northern Ireland— Fire Authority Fire Brigades in Northern Ireland. 

4. Home Office— 

Local Authority Fire Brigades. 

Isle of Man Fire Brigade. 

Fire Brigades in the Channel Islands. 

Fire Service Instructors at Central Training Establishments. 

Fire Service Inspectorate. 

5. Scottish Home and Health Department— 

Local Authority Fire Brigades. 

Fire Service Instructors at the Scottish Fire Service Training School. 

Fire Service Inspectorate 

6. Department of the Environment— 

Members of the Department of the Environment. Fire Brigade and Fire Services. 

7. Department of Transport— 

British Airports Authority (up to 1 st . August 1986) and BAA plc Aerodrome Fire Services. Local Authority Aerodrome Fire 

Services. 

Public Airport Companies (formed under the Airports Act 1986) Aerodrome Fire Services. 

194

APPENDIX. 

Chief TOM SMITH, St Austell Fire Brigade. 

The following account of the incident which led to the Chief‘s award was found in ‗Fire‘ magazine, January, 1931, pp. 175. The 

compiler of the M.A.D. list is grateful for the help he received from A.C.O. T. Simpson, Cornwall F. and R.S. 

GALLANT FIRE CHIEF. 

Three young lives lost in 

village with no Fire Protection. 

The inquest into the circumstances in which Phyliss Mary, eight, Arthur Earnest , six and Hazel Jean, four, 

children of Marine Ernest Aspin, H.M.S. Cornwall lost their lives was marked by a tribute from Coroner 

Carlyon to the gallantry of Chief Tom Smith, of St. Austell Fire Brigade, and evidence of the need of 

adequate fire protection in rural areas. 

The bereft mother left the children asleep, two in one bed and the third in a cot, to do her Saturday shopping 

and on return at about 9 o‘clock, found the house on fire and her neighbours trying to extinguish the 

outbreak with pails of water. At 0943hrs, the St. Austell Fire Brigade was called and Chief Smith, who is 

sixty five, sped ahead with his daughter in his motor car. 

He reached the scene at 10.03 and was told that there were three children in the house from which smoke 

and flame were belching. Entering a window he reached the children‘s bedroom. 

Driven Back. 

―It was like an oven‖, he told the Coroner, and the heat drove me back at first. I crawled in and found the 

cot empty and a child lying on the floor. I picked it up and then saw two other children lying on a full size 

bedstead. 

―I passed the first child to someone outside and said,I know where the other two are , I entered the room 

again. This time one of the villagers accopanied me. I took one child off the bed and he took the other.‖ 

Artificial respiration failed. Pressed by the Coroner to state whether in his opinion the children should have 

been an hour earlier by the villagers , Chief Smith said: I think that the children should have be got out…I 

regret that , because of the delayed call, I did not arrive five minutes earlier. 

The coroner: We all feel proud of your conduct. 

Chief Smith: I was hoping that every Englishman would do the same. 

The coroner: Unfortunately they did not. 

At this stage, a Mr. Grime, uncle of the victims, exclaimed: ― Thank you very much, Chief Smith. You are a 

true man.‖ 

In announcing a verdict of Accidental Death, the foreman of the jury also thanked Chief Smith. 

======================================================= 

An Edinburgh newspaper reported on Wednesday, December 29, 1937; 

―STUNT FIREMAN 

REWARDED FOR RESCUE‖ 

―A life saving medal has been awarded to Fireman James Evans of Edinburgh Fire Brigade, for his 

gallantry in the rescue of three men from the Corporation destructor chimney in Russell Road in May last 

year. The presentation was made by the Lord Provest Sir Louis Gumley.‖ 

(This medal was the Edinburgh City Valour Medal.) 

The award of the Kings Police Medal for Gallantry was promulgated in the London Gazette, 1st January 1938. 


Brigades whose names appear below:—(Supplement to the L/G. 34469, 1 

195 

st. January 1938, pp. 20.) 

FOR GALLANTRY. Fire Brigade: Scotland. James EVANS, Fireman, Edinburgh City Fire Brigade. 

It would appear that Fm. Evans pitched a hook ladder from the head of the T.L to reach the top of the 

chimney. At least one of the stranded workers was injured. Presumably, the men, aided by Evans, used the 

laddder to reach the T.L. and then descended to ground level.

Evans would have been 33 years old at the time and was known to be a fit man. His routine exercises 

included hand stands at the head of a fully extended turntable ladder!. He had joined the Brigade in April 

1934 and previously had been a cycle/motor cycle mechanic. 

He was dismissed from the Service ‗for a serious breach of discipline‘, 24 th December 1938. 

He appears to have been a complex character. In January 1939 he returned his medals to the Council and 

the Secretary of State. 

The compiler‘s thanks Lothian and Borders F.B. Museum for their help with this entry. The Edinburgh museum is a ―must visit‖ 

for anyone interested in fire brigade history. 

‗Medals, Awards and Decorations‘. 

1890 – 2009. 

Started; November, 2009. 

Completed; November. 2010. 

Pages 196. 

Words, 146,059. (appoximately 4,130 names.) 

ABOUT THE COMPILER. 

Geof Cooper attended his first fire, aged 14 years, in the mid 1950‟s aboard H.M.S.Wizard, a fast anti 

submarine frigate. He was experiencing a few days at sea with his father, the ship‟s Gunnery Officer when, 

at about 0430hrs, in the North Sea, the galley caught fire. Although the galley was badly damaged, the ship 

was able to return to Chatham under its own power, escorted by a tug. He remembers the sailors forming a 

chain to supply cans of foam compound to the firefighting teams, of learning some choice new words and 

the smoke flavoured Corn Flakes served at breakfast that morning! 

In 1963, following a five year engineering apprenticeship, Geof Cooper joined Kent Fire Brigade. He spent 

virtually all his career in an operational or training role and was Station Commander at Maidstone Fire 

Station for five years, 1981-86. A heart condition brought about a medical discharge in 1991 but he 

continued to serve for a further five years as the Brigade‟s Press Officer. He finally left the Brigade in 1997 

after a total of almost thirty four years service. 

He now spends his time undertaking such dubious activities as writing and lecturing on Fire Brigade matters, 

and, on Monday‟s, polishing brass at the Brigade Museum whilst reminiscing about what are erroneously 

called, „the good old days‟. 

This is his seventh book on Fire Brigade matters, the other titles being; 

“Loosely Connected”, the story of the Auxiliary Towing Vehicle and its Trailer Pump. 

―Floating Fire Engines” the development of nation‟s fire boats. 

“Burstow‘s Diary”, a transcription of a diary kept by a member of the N.F.S. Overseas Contingent. 

“Bastion of Britain”, the official account of the activities of No. 30 (East Kent) Fire Force. 

“Honour and Awards‖; a list of the awards granted to members of Kent‟s Fire Brigades, 1920-2008. (with 

the completion of this list, now due an update!) 

―Roll of Honour‖, The names and circumstances of death, of the 123 Kent firemen and firewomen who 

died on duty, 1822 - 1990. 

196

The 'M - Kent Fire and Rescue Service

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